Unlocking the potential: activities in specialist disability accommodation

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) communities are designed to provide housing options for individuals with significant functional impairments and high support needs. These communities aim to create an environment that supports residents in achieving greater independence and quality of life.

Living in a specialist disability community provides residents with an enriching experience through tailored, person-centered activities that accommodate individual interests and preferences.

Anoop, a personal carer at WesleyCare Tewantin, in the Sunshine Coast, shares the vibrant atmosphere of nightly bingo sessions at the disability group home:

Everyone loves bingo, and we sit outside and play board games as a daily activity. Even on days when the weather keeps them indoors, board games become a daily staple, ensuring there's never a dull moment.

Community engagement

Community access is a vital aspect of life in a specialist disability home. Residents at WesleyCare Tewantin actively participate in various outdoor activities. Whether it's a simple coffee outing or engaging in swimming or dancing, our emphasis on community engagement contributes to the residents' holistic well-being.

Gatherings within the community help foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents, while activities outside the residence help to promote social inclusion and integration within the broader community.

Vivian, a resident at WesleyCare Tewantin, expresses her enjoyment of routine activities:

Sometimes I like to go out for coffee. I like swimming, dancing, and Zumba.

Anoop, tapping into his background in hospitality, involves residents in culinary arts:

They love Indian curries, and when we work together, we cook different cuisines. It creates an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and share their culinary skills.

Activities

Image: Viv during an outing with the resident from WesleyCare Tewantin.

Here are some general activities that residents in an SDA community may engage in:

• Skill development programs tailored to their needs, such as activities to enhance daily living, communication or vocational skills.
• Recreational activities such as arts and crafts, music therapy, and recreational outings.
• Health and fitness programs adapted to cater to the diverse needs of residents.
• Therapeutic support services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
• Social events and gatherings within the community. This may include community meals, movie nights, or themed events.
• Events and activities outside the SDA community.
• Education and training programs to develop new skills and knowledge.
• Assistive technology integration into daily activities.
• Gardening and outdoor activities.

Wesley Mission Queensland disability communities in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coats provide individualised care plans, regular assessments, and collaboration with our team of support professionals. These are crucial in ensuring that residents receive the appropriate level of care and engagement in their SDA community.

Image: Residents can enjoy activities like table tennis,
music and arts at our specialist disability accommodation 

Life in Specialist Disability Accommodation is far from mundane. From the excitement of bingo nights to the joy of community outings and collaborative cooking, the Wesley Mission Queensland ensures that residents experience a fulfilling and diverse range of activities.