Inform issue 26 – Summer 2019

YOUR HEALTH
Sensory overload 101
NDIS FEATURE
How to kick start your NDIS plan
COVER FEATURE
Why I'm bucking the 'disabled
people can't work' trend
SUMMER EDITION
2019

Inform is
Independence
Australia’s crossdisability
magazine.
We encourage readers to
submit suitable content
for consideration by
Independence Australia. All
correspondence of this nature
should be directed to:
inform@iagroup.org.au
While every effort has been
made to ensure the accuracy
of the information in this
publication, Independence
Australia assumes no
responsibility for errors
or omissions of any
consequences of reliance in
this publication. The opinions
expressed in this publication
do not necessarily represent
the views of Independence
Australia. Medical information
included is not intended to be
a substitute for professional
advice.
Your NDIS journey
of care starts here
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
is a new way to provide support for Australians
with a disability, their families and carers.
CORE
SUPPORTS
Daily activities: In-home
& in the community.
Consumables &
continence products.
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Therapy, skills
development &
co-ordination
of support.
CAPITAL &
ASSISTIVE
TECHNOLOGY
Household aids &
mobility equipment.
As a leading service provider, our dedicated team of co-ordinators are here to
support your journey to the NDIS. We’ve got you covered with a wide range of
products, equipment, services and supports for your NDIS package, all from our
one organisation.
ABN 80 973 805 243
Building 1, 9 Ashley Street
West Footscray VIC 3012
inform@iagroup.org.au
www.independenceaustralia.com
independenceaus
independenceaus
STEP 1.
Preparing
your plan.
STEP 2.
Developing
your plan.
STEP 3.
Getting your
plan approved
by the NDIA.
STEP 4.
Choosing your
providers and
implementing
your plan.
Visit independenceaustralia.com/ndis
to learn more about the NDIS
and how it affects you.
STEP 5.
Reviewing
your plan.

Welcome
informonline.org.au
3
ISSUE #26
contents
Waves of
change
This issue of Inform is all about closing off
2018 and welcoming a brand-new year
ahead. While starting a new year can be
exciting for some, it can also be a time
of anxiety and uncertainty for others. In
this issue we hope to equip you with some
skills and strategies to cope with these
emotions.
Also in this issue we hear from Jarad, a presenter
with Radio Adelaide about why he is bucking the
‘people with disabilities cannot work’ attitude.
In his feature Jarad addresses his challenges in
finding work in the media sector and why he is now
being up-front with potential employers about his
disability. He also shares with us his advice for any
job-seekers out there who might be struggling too.
In our NDIS feature in this issue we offer advice on
how to kick-start your NDIS plan, and what options
you have available if you are happy (or unhappy)
with what you have received. We also work to
break down the key funding categories, so you can
better understand your plan, and what your funding
can do for you.
The Inform team is committed to bringing you
quality, informative content wherever you are in
Australia, so we encourage you to get in touch with
us if you have a story of independence to share.
You can reach the team at inform@iagroup.org.au
4
10
14
16
18
20
22
24
30
Feature: Why I’m bucking the
‘disabled people cannot work’
trend
NDIS Feature: How to kick start
your plan
Supports for school leavers
If you can’t say something nice…
Flying with mobility equipment
The What, Where and How of
accessible beaches
Surviving the heat
Sensory overload 101
How to find a hobby
Managing Editor: Alison Crowe
Deputy Editor: Rachel Tyler Jones
Design: Mark Lovatt
Cover Story Photography:
Lee Knowles
4
Alison Crowe

4 informonline.org.au Feature
Bucking
the trend
People with disabilities can’t work?
Think again
As one of the presenters of De-Stigmatised
with Radio Adelaide, Jarad McLoughlin is an
up-and-coming voice in the Australian media
industry. From his perspective as someone
with Asperger’s Syndrome, Ayme-
Gripp Syndrome and other sensory
impairments, Jarad shares his
thoughts and advice on getting
work, tenaciously following your
passion and breaking into the
media industry.
Words: Jarad McLoughlin
Pics: Lee Knowles

Feature
informonline.org.au
5

6 informonline.org.au
Feature
It can be said that if you have never worked
an honest day in your life, it brings on a horrid
feeling of discontent and rejection if you’re
applying for jobs in a heavily neurotypical
workplace. Unfortunately, problems with getting
disabled people into casual or permanent jobs
won’t address some of the issues employers
are not interested in resolving, including digital
convergence, diversity recruitment and awareness
training.
In the radio broadcasting industry, particularly in
community and commercial networks, people with
disabilities still have no influential, managerial
or strategic voice. This misaligns the balance of
representation and inclusiveness in having a range
of presenters, producers and directors/managers
with good skills and knowledge in both presenting
and using technical equipment.
When I started writing and sending off my resume
in my early 20s, I was quite unadventurous in what
I wanted to do. From my earliest memories of being
educated at special schools as a young child,
thinking about my career goals was never in my
inner subconscious. Even when I was 19 years old,
I didn’t believe that I had enough talent to host and
produce a radio show without supervision.
In 2005, I spent six weeks at 5RPH 1197 AM (now
known as Vision Australia Radio Adelaide), where I
received some mentoring and guidance on working
in a radio studio and transferring calls for on-air
and pre-recorded interviews. After that, I tried to
apply as a volunteer with several community radio
stations spread across metropolitan Adelaide, but
not one took me on.

Feature
informonline.org.au
7
“I had to persist in fighting to
be heard by an industry that
still has a very low percentage
of employees with a disability
or impairment”

8 informonline.org.au
Feature
“I believe that
disclosing who you are
to potential employers
is important in
promoting your work
ethic”

Feature
informonline.org.au
9
I didn’t fare better with employment
agencies, as nobody could offer me any
advice or refer me on to work that catered to
my skillset. While undertaking my Bachelor
of Media undergraduate degree at the
University of Adelaide, I approached Radio
Adelaide 101.5 FM about doing a 60-minute
program on disability-related content,
but was knocked back due to having no
proper framework. Often it occurred to me
that management misjudged my interests
in joining the station, but ableism never
interfered with my later involvement at Radio
Adelaide after completing my training in May
2016.
According to 2014-15 figures from the
Australian Government’s Australian Institute
of Health and Welfare, of those aged 15+
who identify as being autistic 42% say
that they are not in the labour force, while
24% say they are employed and 34% are
unemployed. Of the 2.1 million Australians
with disability who are of working age, only
1 million have found themselves a job, and
over one-quarter of autistic jobseekers are
involuntarily unemployed.
A recent survey conducted by Autism
Spectrum Australia (Aspect) discovered
that most adults with Asperger’s Syndrome
can’t get access to the support they need in
achieving their career goals and aspirations.
I had to persist in fighting to be heard by an
industry that still has a very low percentage
of employees with a disability or impairment.
I was lucky – eventually Radio Adelaide did
listen, and over the last five years I have
involved myself with the radio station. My
immersion at Radio Adelaide has made me
to be more self-confident and self-assured
in what my short- and long-term goals are
in my career: to become the first radio
presenter or journalist who is openly autistic
and gay.
Since then I have dabbled in some freelance
journalism work with SBS, writing opinion
editorials encapsulating the realities that
Australia’s disability community faces daily.
I do it without worrying about censoring or
retracting what I say with my argumentative
and personified opinions.
Back in February this year, I applied for the
ABC’s Media Cadetship Program as I thought
I was ready to venture into the next stage
of my career. When writing out my cover
letter about having Asperger’s Syndrome,
Ayme-Gripp Syndrome and other sensory
impairments, tweaking or distorting the truth
didn’t seem all that appealing to me.
I believe that disclosing who you are
to potential employers is important in
promoting your work ethic, particularly when
marketing your eligibility and productivity as
a reliable employee. When deciding what to
put into your resume before sending it off to
businesses, double-check that everything is
accurate and factual. The worst thing is to
have two or more referees who are unable
to be contacted by phone or email.
My advice to future disabled jobseekers,
including those who are autistic, is to refrain
from suppressing or erasing your disability
or impairment. If an employer is verbally
or passively ableist, you shouldn’t sacrifice
your mental health for financial stability. Also,
remember to be well groomed and punctual
when going to job interviews, as I guarantee
you will be looked at more favourably. Who
knows, you might just get that congratulatory
call-back saying that you have been hired.
Jarad will be a guest in our upcoming podcast
episode on work and including your disability
on your resume. You can find out more here
www.informonline.org.au/listen

10 informonline.org.au
NDIS Feature
NDIS:
How to kick
start your
plan
So you’ve successfully received an
NDIS plan – congratulations! But are
you finding yourself a bit unsure and
confused about what is supposed
to happen next? This next step can
be daunting, particularly if you have
never accessed funding before.

NDIS Feature
informonline.org.au
11
Where do I start?
The first step is to get familiar with
it all. There is a lot to learn and
remember when it comes to the
NDIS, so it is important that you take
the time to understand what the NDIS
is doing for you.
Firstly, read through your plan lineby-line
and make sure that you fully
understand what you are covered for.
As mentioned in issue 25 of Inform
magazine, if this read-through causes
any questions or concerns for you,
make sure that you write them down
for later. Once you’ve got your head
around your plan, log into your NDIS
participant portal and get familiar
with this interface. This is particularly
important if you are self-managing
your plan and your funds, as this
interface allows you to access your
funds and pay invoices.
Hang on, what if I’m not happy
with my plan?
If you have done your initial readthrough
of your plan and you think
that it doesn’t meet your needs, you
are able to question these decisions
and request a review.
If you would like to request a
review of the NDIS’s decision you
can contact the NDIA – either in
writing, over the phone or via email
– and request an internal review
of a decision. In this initial contact,
briefly explain why you think this
decision is not correct. This will
start a process where someone at
the NDIA will review your plan and
will be in contact with you when a
new decision has been made. This
process can take some time.
It is important for you to
know that you can still
use your NDIS plan even
when you have submitted
it for a review
review, as using the funds doesn’t
mean that you ‘accept’ the plan you
aren’t happy with. So although your
plan might be in review, it doesn’t
mean that you have to go without
supports while you wait!
What if I am happy with my plan?
If you have received your plan and
you’re happy then you are all ready
to go.
If you are already receiving services
from a service provider and you want
to continue to use this provider, the
first thing you should do is contact
them and tell them that you have
received your plan. Doing this means
that your provider can prepare for
your plan, and ensures that your
service continues without any
interruptions. When telling them about
your plan, your provider may ask
for some information from you, and
they will use this to create a service
agreement which outlines what
services you’ll receive from them.
If you are new to receiving services, or would
like to try a new provider, why not use our
‘How to pick a provider’ guide in issue 25 of
Inform magazine and on our website?
Find out more at:
www.informonline.org.au/how-to-pick-a-ndisprovider/
It is important for you to know that
you can still use your NDIS plan even
when you have submitted it for a

Effective in flattening, fading and softening
up to 90% of red
and raised scars 4,5
CICA-CARE – Let the anxiety fade 1,2
CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown in studies to flatten,
fade and soften red and raised scars in up to 90% of cases. 4,5
This includes both new and existing hypertrophic and keloid
scars. Additionally, CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown to
be effective in the cosmetic appearance of scars up to 20 years
old, 3 making them potentially suitable for patients who have
experienced the long-lasting impact of scarring. When used
correctly, CICA-CARE can give you results in as little as
2–4 months. 4,5
More than “just a scar”
For many patients, a scar is more than an imperfection – it’s a
source of physical and emotional distress. 1,2 Given the significant
impact scarring can have on patients’ lives, international guidelines
now recommend that following surgery or trauma, the first priority
should always be the prevention of abnormal scar formation. 6
Before After 1
CICA-CARE Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if CICA-CARE will work on scar(s)?
The scar needs to be red and raised for CICA-CARE to be effective
– it doesn’t work on white and flat scars.
How is CICA-CARE used and how long will it take for the scar to
get better?
It can vary from person to person and from scar to scar. Some
people may see an improvement within days. When used correctly,
best results are seen after 2-4 months of treatment. CICA-CARE
wear time should be increased from 4 hours per day for the first
two days up to a minimum of 12 hours per day. Refer to the pack
insert for details. If possible, CICA-CARE should be worn 24 hours
per day. This build up is necessary to get the skin accustomed to
the gel sheet. Painless to remove and easy to replace, CICA-CARE
stays in place, although a light bandage or tape may give extra
help to hold it in place. CICA-CARE can be cut to size to fit most
scars. Each separate cut piece will last up to one month in use. It is
durable and reusable.
How soon can CICA-CARE be used after an injury?
CICA-CARE Gel Sheet may be used on any old or new closed
wound. This includes red and raised scars resulting from
surgical incisions such as Caesarean section, cosmetic surgery
or accidental injuries, such as burns or cuts. Always ensure the
wound is fully closed before using CICA-CARE Gel Sheet. Do not
use on open or infected wounds, scabs, over stitches or anywhere
where there is broken skin.
Products listed may not be right for you. Read any warnings before purchase.
Smith & Nephew Pty Ltd 85 Waterloo Rd North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia T +61 2 9857 3999 F +61 2 9857 3900. Trademark of Smith & Nephew. SN14231.
References 1. Newell R. Psychological difficulties amongst plastic surgery ex-patients following surgery to the face: a survey. Brit J Plast Surg 2000; 53: 386-392. 2. Rumsey N, et al. Exploring the psychosocial concerns of
outpatients with disfiguring conditions. J Wound Care 2003; 12: 247-252. 3. Quinn KJ. Silicone gel in scar treatment. Burns 1987; 13 (supp) : S33-S40. 4. Carney SA, et al. Cica-care gel sheeting in the management of hypertrophic
scarring. Burns 1994;20: 163-167. 5. Mercer NSG. Silicone gel in the treatment of keloid scars. Br J Plast Surg 1989; 42: 83-87. 6. Monstrey S, et al. Updated scar management practical guidelines: non-invasive and invasive
measures. JPRAS 2014; 67:1017-1025.

NDIS Feature
informonline.org.au
13
What do
the funding
categories
mean?
One of the first things we
recommend you do when
you receive your NDIS
plan is to read through it
thoroughly and make sure
that you understand what
you are funded for. But
how can you understand
your funding if you don’t
quite understand what the
funding categories mean?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you
covered.
Core Supports
Core supports is your flexible funding that covers activities that
help you in your everyday life. For example, this funding can be
used for in-home care, cleaning assistance, any needs-related
products or assistance to access your community. This funding is
flexible so you can use it across a number of support categories.
Capital Supports
Capital supports is funding for your ‘big ticket items’, such as
car modifications or assistive technology. Sometimes you may
need a quote or report from a specialist to be able to access
this funding, so it is best to check with the NDIA if you have any
queries regarding your capital supports funding.
Capacity Building
The final funding category is the capacity building category.
This is to fund activities that help you build your skills and reach
your long-term goals. This funding is not as flexible as your
core supports, and can only be used for specified activities as
mentioned within your plan. This funding can be used for things
like support coordination, finding and keeping a job or improving
your relationships, and much more.
If you’re still feeling a bit lost the NDIS has a number of
‘Understanding the NDIS’ booklets on its website at www.ndis.
gov.au. We also recommend looking at the ‘NDIS Price Guide’ to
help you understand how much each service can cost you, and
therefore how far your funding will go.

14 informonline.org.au
Your future
Supports
for school
leavers with
disabilities
Leaving school and figuring out what to do
next is a process most people go through, and
it’s hard for everyone. If you’re considering
getting some help because of a disability,
there are a few extra things you need to think
about. Here we have tried to give you a simple
guide, to help you get started.
After you leave school, you might want to:
• pursue further education
• gain employment
• undertake vocational training
• participate in volunteering and/or other
community based activities.
When deciding what you want to do, you
should think about:
• what is involved with each option
• what each option might mean for you long-term
• how you might access your chosen option
• what kind of assistance you might need to
achieve your goal

Your future
informonline.org.au
15
For example, if you like technology you
might want to get a job in IT. Working
backwards from that end goal, you will need
training, either through TAFE or a university.
To get training you will need to apply and get
accepted. Before that, you might need a part
time job to support yourself. To get to your
part time job or to university you might need
travel training. You can get support through
each of these steps, so it’s important to work
backwards from your end goal, break the
process down into steps, and figure out what
assistance you might need along the way.
Types of assistance you can access:
• Job-ready training
• Assistance finding employment
• Assistance with independent living
• Travel training
This is not a complete list, but it might get
you thinking about what is possible.
What has changed for school leavers
Previously school leavers were supported
through the My Future: My Life program.
This program will continue to be available
until the NDIS rolls out in your area, at which
point you will move over to the NDIS. You
can apply for NDIS school-leaver support
up to six months before the NDIS rolls out in
your area.
How the new system works
If you are eligible for the NDIS you can
access School Leaver Employment Supports
(SLES) during your final two years of
schooling, or up to two years after leaving
school. The earlier you start this process,
the better your chances of getting all the
support you need.
in your NDIS plan. To access this, you need
to contact your Local Area Coordinator to
develop a plan. You can do this up to two
years before you leave school.
Before you go to your meeting, you may
wish to identify which supports you may
need. For example:
• assistance in getting work experience
while you are still at school, so you can
identify what sort of work you might want
to do
• undertaking job skills training, to improve
your employability
• undertaking travel training, so you can get
to and from work independently
• assistance in creating a CV or in applying
for roles
• assistance with your application for
further study or training
• assistance finding a community
organisation or volunteer position
Your Local Area Coordinator will help you to
think through the options, and help you to
develop a plan that’s right for you.
If you would like to read more, to help
you consider all your options, the Better
Health Channel has created a very
comprehensive resource, which can be
found at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/
ServicesAndSupport/postschool-options-forpeople-with-a-disability.
If you’ve got a story about leaving school, or think you
could offer some advice to other school leavers based
on your own experience, we’d love to hear from you.
Email us at inform@iagroup.org.au
SLES is one of many supports available
through the NDIS. As with all things NDIS, it
is available if it is deemed reasonable and
necessary for the school leaver. Because
SLES is a support, it needs to be included

16 informonline.org.au
Your health
If you
can’t say
something
nice…
Dealing with stigma is part of everyday life
for those living with a disability, and for those
that don’t have the right coping strategies it
can take a toll on your emotional health. Here
are some ways in which you can deal with
unwanted advice and opinions.
Speak up
Stigma can often mean that an
individual is thought of as being
‘other’ and there is often a separation
created between the different parties.
It is important to be able to speak up
and inform people that you are equal
and deserve to be treated as so.
Educate
A lot of people may be creating these
differences because they genuinely
don’t understand someone’s
disability, so informing and educating
these family members is key. This
will also give you the opportunity to
correct inaccurate statements and
misunderstandings.
Participate
People may not understand your
capabilities so leaving you out of
an activity may seem like their only
option. In this case, speak up and
let them know that you would like
to participate and suggest a few
activities that you may be able to do.

Your health
informonline.org.au
17
The anticipation of a new year
can sometimes bring about
feelings of stress and anxiety
for some children and adults
with disabilities.
Connect with your support
system
If all else fails, remove yourself from
the negative situation and surround
yourself with people who are
respectful, accepting and understand
your disability.
Be prepared
Preparing yourself for an
uncomfortable situation may be a
useful strategy for being able to take
care of yourself on the day if things
go south. Having already developed
strategies for situations that may
upset you or make you angry may be
helpful in being able to cope with the
circumstance. For example, removing
yourself from the situation, breathing
exercises, going outside for some
fresh air, sitting in another room and
doing an activity that relaxes you such
as reading.
Realistic thinking
Remember that thoughts and opinions
are not facts! It is critical to remember
that you are your own expert, you
know your ability and being able to
identify the unrealistic thoughts and
opinions of yourself and others is a
necessity.
Tips for family
and friends
While the new year can bring times of
joy and excitement to some of us, it
can sometimes bring about feelings of
stress and anxiety for some children
and adults with disabilities.
Here are a few tips and ideas for
family members and friends to try, to
help create a positive environment for
those living with a disability.
Inform and educate – who
needs to know?
There are many situations where
extended family gets together and
some family members or friends
may not completely understand an
individual’s disability or know how
to act when around them. It might
be useful for family members or the
individual with the disability to send
out a quick update to other family
members before any big events, and
this update may include:
• Achievements and events that
have happened during the year
• Activities and topics that the
individual may enjoy discussing
• Activities and topics that people
should avoid
• Things that the individual
may enjoy or find difficult and
challenging during the festive
celebrations
A designated safe area might also
be helpful, if an individual starts to
become overwhelmed and requires
a quiet and designated space where
they can retreat. This area can be
a calming place where they can
complete an activity or task that they
may prefer (e.g. reading their favorite
book or listening to music).

18 informonline.org.au
Our advice
Flying with
mobility
equipment
Requiring mobility equipment shouldn’t hold
you back from taking to the skies, but the
reality is that it does take a bit of extra
planning before you can board the plane.
Most airlines have improved their mobility
assistance services over the last couple of
years, and it’s now much easier than it used to
be to communicate your needs. So what can
you take, and how can you make sure it arrives
in one piece?
Do your research
The first step is to do your research.
Each airline has its own restrictions,
procedures and costs around
bringing your own mobility equipment
on board. For example, some airlines
charge extra if you need a lift to get
up the stairs for planes that don’t
have an aerobridge, while others
offer this service free of charge.
Each airline will have this information
listed on its website. Alternatively
you can call the airline and talk to
someone about your needs. Another
complicating factor is that while
many newer, larger aeroplanes
can accommodate full-size mobility
scooters and wheelchairs, older
and/or smaller aircraft may not have
this capability. Where you can go or
what you can take may be restricted
by the aircraft that flies this route.
Again, this is a question you can ask
the airline. Finally, it’s important to

Our advice
informonline.org.au
19
let the airline know that you will be
bringing a mobility aid early, as many
aeroplanes can only accommodate a
small number of these, and there may
already be other people who have
booked a spot for a wheelchair or
scooter on your flight.
Communicate early and often
Once upon a time airlines understood
“I need mobility assistance” as
“I need a wheelchair”, but these
days you can communicate your
needs with a level of nuance.
Communicating your specific needs
with the airline well ahead of time will
ensure you have the best possible
experience. Start by calling when you
are booking your ticket to ensure
the airline can accommodate your
needs. Then call again the day
before your travel, to confirm your
plans and go over what will happen
when you arrive at the airport. Finally,
ensure you arrive at the airport
with plenty of extra time, as it may
take you longer to get to your gate.
Whatever your specific needs are,
if you communicate them early and
often you are more likely to get
the individual support you require,
rather than being treated as ‘generic
disability’.
When you arrive at the airport
If you give them enough notice some
airlines will meet you at your car
with a wheelchair. You can request
a golf buggy ride if you are more
mobile, but may still find the long trip
between check in and the final gate
too long and strenuous. If you use
crutches or walking sticks let the staff
at security checkpoints know that you
require these aids to walk – if you
communicate your needs, they can
pass your walking stick(s) through the
scanner, and then bring them back
to you, to allow you to walk on your
own through the security checkpoint.
Alternatively, they may provide a
wheelchair to get you to the other
side. Finally, if you are checking in
a wheelchair or scooter, ensure you
bring the manual and any tools you
may require to disassemble it. Most
airlines will require that tall backrests
are removed, or they may have other
requirements. Ensure you arrive with
plenty of time to undertake these
tasks, and that you bring someone to
assist you, as airlines may not be able
to do so.
On the plane
Remember that being on the plane
itself may take some planning. Airline
staff are not expected to assist with
eating, administering medication,
using the toilet or lifting or carrying a
passenger. If you are likely to require
this type of assistance, you’ll need
to bring someone with you who can
perform these tasks. If you need
a carer, they may be eligible for a
Companion Card discount from the
airline, which can provide tickets at a
significantly reduced cost.
Touchdown
If you have a stopover, it’s worth
checking whether you will have
access to your mobility aids. If
they have been stored under the
aeroplane, the answer is likely no, so
come up with a plan for the stopover
ahead of time in consultation with the
airline. It’s also important to plan what
will happen at your final destination.
Talk to the airline about where you
can pick up your mobility aids, or
what assistance may be available
in terms of commuting through the
airport to pick up your luggage.

20 informonline.org.au
Summer
The What,
Where and How
of accessible
beaches

Summer
informonline.org.au
21
What are accessible beaches?
Accessible beaches have been made
more accessible for people with wheels
– whether you’re in a wheelchair, using a
mobility scooter or even pushing a pram.
There are usually a few considerations when
making a beach accessible. Accessible
beaches offer ramps or stair-free access to
the sand. They also have beach matting, to
make rolling across the sand possible in a
standard wheelchair. Many also offer beach
wheelchairs for hire. Beach wheelchairs
have buoyant armrests and wheels that
allow the chair to float in the water. They
also have straps to secure the rider. Beach
wheelchairs are designed to enter the water,
up to the waist height of a support person,
so that everyone can enjoy the beach and
have a dip. Finally, some accessible beaches
may offer access to Changing Places
facilities.
Changing Places
Changing Places is a project to advocate for
public toilets with full sized change tables
and hoists in major public spaces across
Australia to meet the needs of people with
disabilities. If you are looking to hire a beach
wheelchair, but will need the help of a hoist
to transfer from a standard wheelchair to
a beach wheelchair, then looking for an
accessible beach that also has a Changing
Place is going to make the process much
easier. Not all accessible beaches have a
Changing Place.
Where can I find my nearest
accessible beach?
The Accessible Beaches Australia website
has a good list of accessible beaches.
You should also check in with your local
city council. And, if you are looking for a
beach with access to a Changing Place,
the Changing Places website offers a
searchable map of accredited facilities.
Beach wheelchairs are
designed to enter the water,
up to the waist height of
a support person, so that
everyone can enjoy the
beach and have a dip.
How can I get my local beach made
accessible?
Although Accessible Beaches Australia has
a vision to make most patrolled beaches
accessible by 2020, local councils need
to know there is a demand for this service.
When they are presented with the idea of
making a beach accessible, most councils
are concerned about the work and the cost
involved. To counteract this, Accessible
Beaches Australia hosts accessible beach
days, where they demonstrate to local
councils both how easy it is to make
beaches accessible, and how high the
demand is in the local community. Councils
can contact Accessible Beaches Australia
through their website to request a trial
accessible beach day. In many cases, the
trial can be provided free of charge. As a
local resident you can always contact your
local council to let them know that services
like these exist – the fact that they can be
tried risk (and cost) free makes it a much
more appealing proposal!
To find out more, visit
accessiblebeaches.com and changingplaces.org.au

22 informonline.org.au
Your health
Surviving
the heat
There are a range of reasons people’s bodies don’t cope well with
the heat. Some medications, such as blood pressure medication,
antidepressants, antihistamines and more can interfere with a person’s
ability to manage hotter weather. As we get older we don’t perspire as
much, so our bodies have more difficulty cooling themselves. Those
with a cognitive disability may not ‘feel’ the heat, or may not be able to
communicate their discomfort.

Your health
informonline.org.au
23
Getting too hot can be
dangerous, especially when
the person has trouble
communicating their discomfort
Whatever the reason, if you or a
person you are caring for are at
an increased risk from the heat
of summer, there are a number of
steps you can take to stay cool. It is
important to know the signs of heatrelated
distress, and how to avoid
it, as in extreme cases becoming
overheated can be life-threatening.
Signs of heat-related distress:
• Headache, nausea and fatigue are
all signs of heat stress
• Cool, moist skin; a weakened
pulse and feeling faint are all signs
of heat fatigue
• Thirst, giddiness, weakness, lack
of coordination, nausea, profuse
sweating, cold and clammy skin,
possible raised pulse, possible
contracted pupils and possible
vomiting are all signs that the body
is getting too hot, which is known
as heat exhaustion
• If not treated, heat exhaustion can
lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke
is life-threatening and immediate
medical attention is required.
Symptoms can include confusion,
combativeness, bizarre behaviour,
faintness, staggering, rapid pulse,
dry hot and flushed skin, lack of
sweating, possible fast, shallow
breathing and possible dilated
pupils. Later stages can include
delirium, seizures and coma.
Getting too hot can be dangerous,
especially when the person has
trouble communicating their
discomfort, so it’s important to know
the signs ahead of time, and to take
steps to remain cool during hot
weather.
Ways to stay cool in the heat:
• Stay hydrated. Sip on cool drinks
often. Water is best, but if you
prefer fruit juice then water it down
to improve hydration. Avoid drinks
with alcohol, caffeine or excess
sugar.
• Stay out of the sun during the
hottest part of the day, and if
you have to go out cover up with
loose, cool clothing and a hat.
Natural fibers such as cotton will
keep you cooler than polyester.
• Take a cool shower or bath, or
splash yourself with cool water.
• Identify the coolest room you have
access to ahead of time, so you
know where to go in the heat.
• Avoid turning on the oven or
stove, as this will introduce heat
into the house. Instead, opt for a
cool, fresh meal, such as a proteinrich
salad.
• Check in with others. If you know
someone who lives alone, or you
yourself live alone, check in with
others throughout heatwaves, to
ensure everyone is staying safe
and keeping cool.
Other things to consider include
checking medications to ensure
they are being stored at a safe
temperature, and putting them into
a cooler room or even the fridge if
it’s getting too hot inside the house.
If you are ever concerned about
how you will cope with the heat, or
whether a medication will affect how
your body responds to the heat you
should have a chat with a medical
professional, as they can help you
make a plan. If you are worried that
someone may be suffering from
heat-related distress, it is important
to seek medical attention urgently, as
heat-related distress can become lifethreatening
if not treated.
Please note the information supplied is
general in nature. Please consult your medical
practitioner for individual advice.

24 informonline.org.au
Your health
Sensory
overload 101
Anyone can experience sensory overload, but some
conditions can make sensory overload debilitating.
Conditions such as sensory processing disorder, chronic
fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress
disorder and Autism spectrum disorder all exacerbate the
experience of sensory overload, and can make access to
safe spaces and sensory friendly environments a necessity
for participating fully in everyday life.

Your health
informonline.org.au
25
Everyday environments where sensory
overload is more likely to occur include
shopping centres, cinemas, festivals, public
transport, noisy cafes and even busy roads.
Some sectors are becoming more aware of
sensory overload, and are starting to create
safe spaces to become more inclusive for
people with differing sensory needs.
The below list is by no means exhaustive –
these are just some examples of businesses
doing good work with safe spaces for
sensory overload. You can look online for
programs running in your local area, and if
you can’t find any why not take the first step
and make a proposal for a program you’d
like to see run near you?
Shopping
With their harsh lighting, banging trolleys
and beeping machines, supermarkets can
be a big ask for someone who suffers from
sensory overload. Coles Supermarkets
has partnered with Autism Spectrum
Australia (Aspect) to run a sensory overload
friendly ‘Quiet Hour’ every Tuesday from
10.30–11.30am across a number of its stores
nationally. During Quiet Hour the lighting is
dimmed, and noise is reduced by ensuring
that shelf-restocking carts are removed
from the shop floor, and beeps on checkout
machines are turned off. You can find a
participating store by visiting the Coles
website. The Good Guys is running a similar
initiative, and the concept is beginning to
catch on with other retailers.
Some shopping centres, for example the
Northland Shopping Centre in Melbourne,
are creating sensory safe spaces for
shoppers who need some down time. These
are quiet rooms with gentle lighting and soft
fittings to give shoppers or their children
some time out to reset and relax before
continuing with their shopping.
These quiet rooms with gentle
lighting and soft fittings are
designed to give shoppers or
their children some time out
to reset and relax
Driving
Drive Smart Driving School in Adelaide has
partnered with Autism SA to train staff to run
programs specifically for teaching learner
drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, to
help them to become safe, independent
drivers.
Hairdressers
There are a number of hairdressers who
specialise in giving haircuts to children and
adults who find the experience of getting a
haircut overwhelming. Giggle and Scissors
are a mobile Brisbane based company.
Shear Abilities salon in Maitland offers a
friendly and inclusive space.
Cinemas
Some cinemas run sensory-friendly sessions,
which include dimmed lighting and lowered
volume, and no judgement for getting up
and moving around during the film. Event
Cinemas and Village Cinemas both run
sensory-friendly sessions, so check out their
websites to find a session near you.
Sensory overload can be debilitating, but
initiatives like those mentioned can help to
make everyday activities bearable, and for
some, possible for the first time. It is always
worth encouraging your local businesses
and councils to look at the success of these
programs in other areas and to consider
doing something similar, so we can all enjoy
being out in the world.

Abri-Form Junior
Supporting the changing needs
From child to young adult
Shop online at store.independenceaustralia.com or call 1300 788 855
Skincare Lotion
With age, the skin changes and can become dry, which can cause irritation. Moisturising twice
a day helps to maintain skin integrity.
The Abena Skincare Lotion is a gentle, effective product suitable for daily care of the
skin. The lotion contains both nourishing ingredients that moisturise the skin, and stearates
that increase the speed of absorption. Assists with regenerating the skin’s own defence
system, and assists with skin elasticity.
• CLINICALLY PROVEN*
• Skin neutral pH
• 16% fat content
• Nordic Swan certified
• Dermatologically tested
*The effectiveness of a twice-daily skin-moisturising regimen for reducing the incidence of skin tears Carville K et al (2014) International
Wound Journal ISSN 1742-4801
Shop online at store.independenceaustralia.com or call 1300 788 855

Melbourne Disability Expo
informonline.org.au
27
The Melbourne
Disability
Expo 2018
My future, my choice
The Melbourne Disability Expo was
more relevant than ever in 2018.
The NDIS is now fully rolled out
or being rolled out progressively
across most of Victoria’s metro
and regional areas. Under the new
scheme thousands of Victorians with
disabilities are expected to make
decisions about their own care, or the
care of their loved ones, and with so
many services on offer this can be an
overwhelming task.
The yearly expo allows people with
disabilities to find out about the
latest products, services, technology,
aids and equipment, by talking
face-to-face with people working
for those companies. It can be an
important step in finding a provider
who feels trustworthy, capable and
respectful of your choices. This year
the expo took place over Friday
16 and Saturday 17 November at
the Melbourne Convention and
Exhibition Centre. Over 150 service
and product providers exhibited at
a stall, and visitors were able to try
products, talk to industry experts,
listen to information sessions and
take advantage of the children’s
entertainment.
Independence Australia’s photobooth was
particularly popular – turn over the page to
see some fantastic snaps from the day!

28 informonline.org.au
Photos
The Melbourne
Disability Expo

Featured Products
informonline.org.au
29
TENA takes
special care
of skin
TENA is a name better known for
continence products but did you know
they are also the skincare specialists.
Continence and skincare are closely
linked, skin breakdown can be caused by
the repeated wetting and drying of the
skin with the affected area being more
susceptible to damage.
Lanna Ramsay, head of Ozcare Aged
Care used the TENA skincare range on
her father “My father has always had very
sensitive skin and is prone to easy bruising.
As he is quite active and he often gives
himself small skin tears, and sometimes
big., I have had him using TENA Wash
Cream and Skin Lotion for about three
years. Over that time, there has been a
significant improvement in his skin and a
decreased number of small skin tears”
Traditional soap and water can also be
very harsh on delicate skin, and conditions
like Incontinence Associated Dermatitis
(IAD) can be painful however the TENA
3-in-1 range does not require soap or water
to cleanse and ensures that the skin is
cleaned, protected and moisturised.
Daily checklist for healthy skin:
✓✓
Prevention is the best treatment, cleanse
the body daily
✓✓
Cleanse the skin well when using the
toilet or after every pad change
✓✓
Moisturise the skin after cleansing to
avoid dehydration and form a protective
barrier
✓✓
Protect the genital area (perineum
specifically) with a barrier cream if area
is exposed to regular faecal or urinary
incontinence
Tena Skincare Products
TENA wet wipes
3 in 1 cloth that is premoistened
to clean
the perineum
TENA wash cream
3-in 1 no-rinse cream
that cleanses the
body or perineum and
acts as three products
in one, a gentle
cleanser, moisturiser
and protective cream.
It can be safely left on
the skin and is ideally
applied with the TENA
soft cloth
TENA skin lotion
deep moisturizer that
contains natural oils
that make it gentle
and suitable for
delicate/sensitive skin
and for use on the
whole body
TENA Barrier Cream
forms a protective
layer over the skin;
keeps moisture in;
prevents irritants
penetrating the skin.

30 informonline.org.au
Our advice
How to find
a hobby
Finding the right hobby for you can be
tricky. Many people leave hobbies behind in
childhood, and then never quite figure out how
to get back to spending weekend afternoons
engrossed in a good book, or letting it all out
in drama class.
So, if you’re stuck, here are some steps that
might help you to start the process.
First, think about the sort of person
you are. Do you want a hobby that is
just a bit of fun, or do you need to be
doing something productive in order
to relax? This may determine the
type of hobby you look for. Do you
want a hobby where the activity is the
main focus, or are you looking for a
group of like-minded people, where
the hobby itself is less important
than being social? Are you a morning
person who would enjoy sunrise
meditation, or would you prefer to
do a hobby in the afternoon on the
weekends, when you are at your
most relaxed? If you factor these
things in when choosing a hobby,
you are more likely to find something
you can stick with and enjoy for more
than a few weeks.
Second, think about what makes
you happy, and the activities you
already enjoy. It’s important to think

Our advice
informonline.org.au
31
about why you enjoy them, too. For
instance, two people may enjoy
playing board games with friends, but
for one person the important thing
is spending time with friends, and
for the other person it’s the mental
challenge and strategic thinking that
keeps them coming back week after
week. If these two people were to
pick new hobbies, they would likely
pick two different activities, despite
both enjoying board games. It’s the
why that’s important here.
Next, look for inspiration. Think about
the things you enjoyed as a child.
Spend some time in a bookstore, and
be aware of which sections excite you
– are you drawn to the cookbooks?
Or do you spend all your time in the
history section? Think about projects
you may have undertaken in the past,
and see if you could turn this into an
ongoing hobby. Take a look at local
notice boards, and just see what’s on
offer in your area – the avenues for
inspiration are endless.
Finally, try a few hobbies out. You
likely won’t be sure whether you
enjoy something until you try it,
and hobby collecting can become
a hobby itself. We’ve put together
a list of different hobbies to help
inspire you – why not pick twelve,
and commit to trying a new one every
month for an entire year? Who knows,
maybe something will stick.
Try a few hobbies. You
likely won’t be sure whether
you enjoy something
until you try it, and hobby
collecting can become a
hobby itself.
25 hobbies to
inspire you
Hobbies to help you learn a skill
• Learn a language
• Improve your cooking
• Take up gardening
• Take up film photography
• Learn a musical instrument
• Enroll in an online degree
• Attend free lectures
Hobbies you can do alone
• Become a podcast listener
• Become a Wikipedia editor
• Rate and review movies online
• Take up meditation
• Write letters to people
• Hobbies to do with friends
• Learn to play a team sport
• Get together and play board
games
• Start a documentary watching club
• Become a computer gamer
• Form a pub trivia team
• Join a historical reenactment
group
Hobbies that could make you
some pocket money
• Become a blogger
• Take up a craft and sell your wares
• Write a book
• Become a decluttering guru
• Make a podcast
• Learn to decorate cakes
• Buy and resell items on eBay (for a
profit!)

Independence Australia is a:
NDIS approved provider
TAC service provider
DHHS service provider
Our services include:
In-home care
Accommodation
Psychology and counselling
Case management
Support Coordination
Information
Post polio support
Health care products and equipment
1300 704 456
service.enquiry@iagroup.org.au
www.independenceaustralia.com.au
independenceaust
@independenceaus