NDIS Support for Ageing Parents: What Families Need to Know
Caring for ageing parents is one of the most important—and often challenging—responsibilities many families face. As needs change over time, questions naturally arise:
Can the NDIS help?
Should we be looking at aged care instead?
What support is actually available?
These are not always easy questions to answer. The system can feel confusing, especially when you’re trying to make the best decision for someone you care about.
In our experience supporting families in Brisbane, the biggest challenge is not the lack of support—it’s understanding which system applies and how to access the right help at the right time.
This guide will walk you through it clearly.
Can Ageing Parents Access the NDIS?
The short answer is: it depends on their age and when they apply.
To access the NDIS, a person must:
- be under 65 years old at the time of application
- have a permanent and significant disability
If your parent is over 65 and has not previously been approved for the NDIS, they will generally access support through My Aged Care, not the NDIS.
However:
👉 If your parent was approved for the NDIS before turning 65, they can choose to remain in the scheme.
👉 Speak With an NDIS Support Specialist
NDIS vs My Aged Care: What’s the Difference?
This is where many families feel unsure.
NDIS
- designed for people under 65 with disability
- focuses on long-term independence and skill-building
- offers more flexibility and personalised funding
My Aged Care
- designed for people over 65
- focuses on age-related care and support
- includes services like home care packages and residential care
In our experience, families often assume the NDIS will automatically cover ageing parents—but in reality, understanding the difference early helps avoid confusion and delays.
What Support Is Available for Ageing Parents Under the NDIS?
If your parent is eligible for the NDIS, there are several types of support that can significantly improve their quality of life.
In-Home Support
This includes help with:
- personal care
- daily routines
- mobility
- household tasks
Many families rely on NDIS in-home support in Brisbane to help their parents remain safe and comfortable at home.
Daily Living Assistance
Support workers can assist with:
- meal preparation
- cleaning
- shopping
- daily activities
These supports help maintain independence while reducing pressure on family members.
Community Participation
Staying socially connected is just as important as physical care.
Participants may receive support to:
- attend social activities
- visit community spaces
- stay active and engaged
For some, this can even include unique experiences like adaptive paragliding experiences in Brisbane, helping build confidence and enjoyment in later life.
How to Know Which Support Your Family Needs
Every family situation is different.
Some key questions to consider:
- Is your parent under or over 65?
- Do they have a diagnosed disability?
- Are their needs more related to ageing or disability?
- Do they want to remain at home or consider other options?
In our experience, the best outcomes come when families take the time to understand both practical needs and emotional wellbeing.
Caring for ageing parents is not just about support—it’s also about relationships, dignity and quality of life.
How to Apply for Support for Ageing Parents
If your parent may be eligible for the NDIS:
- Check eligibility criteria
- Submit an access request
- Provide supporting medical evidence
- Attend a planning meeting
If they are not eligible:
- contact My Aged Care
- explore home care packages
- consider local support services
Understanding both pathways early can save time and reduce stress.
How Yirra Care Supports Families and Ageing Participants
At Yirra Care, we work closely with families navigating these decisions every day.
Our approach focuses on:
- personalised in-home support
- maintaining independence
- emotional wellbeing
- supporting both participants and families
We also recognise the emotional side of care. Many families experience stress, uncertainty and even guilt when making decisions for ageing parents.
Understanding the emotional impact of in-home care on families is an important part of providing meaningful support—not just services.
In our experience, the best outcomes happen when care is built on trust, respect and genuine connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About NDIS and Ageing Parents
Can older parents access NDIS support?
Only if they were approved for the NDIS before turning 65, or if they meet the eligibility criteria and apply before that age.
If someone is already over 65 and has not been approved, they will generally access support through My Aged Care instead of the NDIS.
What if my parent is over 65?
They will usually access support through My Aged Care.
Can NDIS fund in-home support?
Yes, if it is related to disability and included in the participant’s plan.
What is the best option for ageing parents?
It depends on their age, needs and eligibility. Some families use NDIS, while others use My Aged Care.
Conclusion
Supporting ageing parents can feel complex, especially when navigating systems like the NDIS and aged care.
Understanding the difference between these pathways is the first step toward making confident decisions.
With the right support, guidance and planning, families can ensure their loved ones receive care that respects their independence, dignity and quality of life.
