SUPPORT when you’re sick

My friend Louise’s husband Rob was always the strong, capable type and, as a landscaper, physically fit. Louise was working as a primary school teacher and they were enjoying life with their two rambunctious boys when Rob, 43, suddenly got sick.

He was diagnosed with a progressive neurological condition and within 12 months he relied on a wheelchair. Louise is now his full-time carer.

‘One minute we were a happy, energetic, double income family, and in the blink of an eye everything changed. The emotional stress of Rob being sick is made worse by stressing about money,’ Louise said when I popped in for a cuppa.

If you find yourself living with a disability or an illness that impacts your ability to work, or you’re an unpaid carer for someone with an illness or disability, there’s support available.

For info, Aussies can visit dss.gov.au, ndis.gov.au and disabilitygateway.gov.au.

In NZ, visit govt.nz and nzdsn.org.nz

PAYMENTS

You may be entitled to government support payments, either short term or long term depending on your condition.

You may also be eligible for rent assistance, or discounts on things such as energy and telephone bills, medication and council rates.

There are also schemes that can help with the cost of occupational therapy, psychologists, support workers and even recreational activities. PROGRAMS AND

SERVICES

You may be eligible for provisions that can make life a little easier, including with such things as housing, disability aides and equipment, transport and employment. You may also be eligible for disability parking permits, in-home help with housework and personal care, support if you or a loved one has a mental illness, and targeted early childhood support for kids with disabilities.

Contact or visit websites for charities and support groups for your specific condition or illness, as they can often help you access help that’s difficult to find on your own.

CARERS

Unpaid carers like Louise may be eligible for government payments such as the carer allowance or carer payment, subject to an assets and income test.

If you are of pension age, be sure to research whether a carer’s payment or the pension is best for you.

Carers may also be entitled to accompany the person they care for to places like the theatre and concerts without having to buy a ticket.

Visit the websites carersaustralia.com.au or carers.net.nz for practical advice, as well as information on keeping yourself physically and mentally healthy.