Michelle’s Journey: How Finding the Right SDA Provider and Home Enhanced Her Lifestyle

Michelle*, a woman in her mid-fifties and wheelchair user was living in a Specialist Disability Accommodation home, but was unhappy with both the service of the provider and the home. She felt her day-to-day lifestyle and independence were limited. She was unable to live with her dog and see loved ones as often as she’d like, and couldn’t grow vegetables as she loved to do. Michelle also lacked choice and control over who supported her.

Michelle reached out to Vera Living as she wanted to feel more confident in her SDA provider and needed a home that would better support her independence. Vera Living’s Participant Engagement Specialist supported Michelle to find a home that was the right fit for her.

The team supported her transition into a new SDA apartment. The accessible home enables Michelle to live independently with support from her preferred provider, and to live with her furry companion! She even has a small garden on her private balcony where she enjoys growing herbs and vegetables, and loves cooking everyday with her home-grown goods as staple ingredients. Her loved ones can now visit her as much as she likes and she loves cooking for them.

Michelle’s SDA apartment has had a profound impact on her wellbeing, independence, and quality of life. She can manage her daily routine and make choices about the things that matter. Michelle’s home supports her passions and her sense of autonomy, helping her to live comfortably and happily.

*Names changed to protect identity.