What Does Independent Living Really Mean?

Independent living doesn’t necessarily mean living alone or without assistance. For people with disability, it means having control over their daily lives—making decisions about where to live, who to live with, how to spend their day, and what kind of support they want.

Support independent living programs offer the guidance and services needed to make these choices possible. At Carex, we create pathways to independence by offering:

• Tailored daily support and personal care
• Support with routines, meals, hygiene, and medication
• Help with community engagement and transport
• Emotional support and companionship
• Skill-building to enhance self-reliance

A Holistic Approach to Independence

At the heart of our services is a person-centred philosophy. This means we view each participant as an individual with unique preferences, abilities, and dreams. Our support model integrates:

1. Choice and Control

Participants are involved in every step of their care plan. From choosing their routines to selecting support workers and home environments, personal choice drives every decision.

2. Safe, Accessible Living Spaces

Our care homes in Australia, particularly in Western Sydney, are designed for accessibility and safety. Homes are equipped to support mobility, sensory needs, and falls prevention in aged care, ensuring comfort and wellbeing for every resident.

3. Skill Development and Confidence Building

Whether it’s learning to cook, manage finances, travel independently, or maintain a home, we help individuals develop essential life skills that promote autonomy.

4. Social Participation and Belonging

Living independently also means staying connected. We facilitate community access, group activities, and local events to ensure participants enjoy meaningful social interaction and friendships.

Why Community Matters in Independent Living

True independence is not built in isolation. It's built in inclusive, supportive environments where individuals feel they belong. This sense of community plays a vital role in personal growth, mental wellbeing, and emotional resilience.

At Carex, we integrate community connection by:

• Organising social outings, volunteer opportunities, and creative programs
• Encouraging peer-to-peer interaction and housemate bonds
• Supporting access to local services and interest-based activities
• Promoting cultural inclusion and respect for diversity

This combination of practical support and social belonging allows individuals to not only live more independently—but also more joyfully.

The Role of the Support Team

Our support workers are the cornerstone of our service. Every member of the Carex team is selected not just for their qualifications, but for their empathy, respect, and commitment to person-centred care.

They are trained in:

• Safe manual handling and mobility assistance
• Communication techniques, including non-verbal and alternative communication
• Falls prevention strategies in aged care
• Managing personal care with dignity and professionalism
• Building trusting relationships with participants and their families

By forming stable, respectful relationships, our staff help build trust, reduce anxiety, and foster an environment where independence can flourish.

Tailored Support for Every Stage of Life

We know that independence looks different for everyone—and changes over time. That’s why we offer flexible, evolving supports based on age, needs, and goals.

• Young adults may focus on transitioning out of the family home, finding employment, or pursuing hobbies and education.
• Older participants may prioritise safety, comfort, and health while maintaining autonomy and dignity.
• Participants with complex needs may require specialist support, behaviour management, or 24/7 care delivered in a structured environment.

No matter the situation, Carex develops individual care services that evolve as life does.

Your Trusted SIL Provider in Western Sydney

With deep roots in Western Sydney, Carex Care Unlimited has become a trusted name in Supported Independent Living (SIL). We work closely with NDIS Support Coordinators, Local Area Coordinators (LACs), and families to ensure each participant receives the best possible outcome.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We listen first—to understand the person before the plan.
• Our homes are warm, inclusive, and equipped for various support needs.
• We value continuity, ensuring participants are matched with consistent, reliable support workers.
• Our services prioritise long-term growth, not short-term fixes.

Common Misconceptions About Independent Living

Many people assume that individuals with disability cannot live independently—but the opposite is often true. With the right support, most people can live with significant autonomy.

Let’s debunk some myths:

• Myth: Independent living means being left alone.
• Fact: It means having the right support at the right time, not no support at all.

• Myth: Only young, physically able individuals can live independently.
• Fact: Independent living is tailored—people of all ages and abilities can live on their own terms.

• Myth: It’s too risky for older people.
• Fact: With proper falls prevention and aged care practices, it can enhance safety and quality of life.

FAQs: Supporting Independent Living