Does the NDIS have an age limit? What happens when I turn 65? Here at Leap in HQ, we are often asked what people can expect of the NDIS as they get older.
Can you expect the NDIS to provide support into old age or do you need to find another source of supports? Today, we’re delving deep into age-related questions so you know exactly what to expect.
What is the NDIS age limit?
You must be under the age of 65 years old to join the NDIS. Anyone who has turned 65 is not eligible to apply so will need to access supports through the Commonwealth Aged Care System instead of the NDIS.
Can I still access the NDIS when I’m over 65?
If you turn 65 after you join the NDIS, you can choose to stay with the NDIS or leave the NDIS and receive supports through the Commonwealth Aged Care System. If you decide to obtain supports through the aged care system, you must notify the NDIS in writing that you no longer wish to be on the NDIS.
What happens to my NDIS Plan if I choose to stay in the NDIS after I turn 65?
If you’re over 65 and decide to stay with the NDIS, you don’t have to worry about anything. Your supports continue as they did before you were 65.
What if I move into aged care?
If you enter residential aged care permanently after you turn 65, you will no longer be eligible for the NDIS. This refers to residential care or nursing in a residential facility that also provides accommodation.
What if I am receiving home care?
If you start receiving home care permanently after you turn 65, you will no longer be eligible to receive NDIS supports.
According to the NDIS, “home care means care consisting of a package of personal care services and other personal assistance provided to a person who is not being provided with residential care.”
What if I have a disability before I turn 65 but don’t apply for the NDIS until after I turn 65?
You will not be eligible for the NDIS.
What if I acquire a disability after turning 65?
If you acquire a disability after you turn 65, you will not be eligible for the NDIS. Instead, you will need to access mainstream services or aged care services. My Aged Care is the government body set up to provide aged care support for people aged over 65.
Should I stay on the NDIS or go through the aged care system once I turn 65?
Both the NDIS and the aged care system provide personalised support to meet your individual needs and help you achieve your goals. Advantages of staying on the NDIS include not having to apply for another program and not having to wait for an assessment or services. Studies show that NDIS recipients can also receive significantly higher funding and more suitable support that better meets their disability-related needs.
If you have questions or would like a better understanding of whether the NDIS plan management is right for you Leap in! is here to help.
We’ve even written some information on What is plan management? so you can find out more about the benefits of having a plan manager.
Get started on your NDIS journey or prepare for an NDIS Plan Reassessment by calling us on 1300 05 78 78 to ask any questions or sign up to Leap in! plan management today.
Originally published on 18 January 2019. Updated 18 September 2020 and 26 April 2022.