Brad and Janice
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Brad was in his late 60s when he fell and broke his back playing with his grandson.
Before the accident, he ran a business and served on the boards of sporting clubs and charities.
‘[Brad] was otherwise fit, healthy and mobile. He is now quadriplegic,’ his friend Janice told the Royal Commission.
Because he is over 65, Brad is ineligible for NDIS support.
‘As it stands at present, regardless of individual circumstances prior to the injury, to sustain an injury after one attains the age 65 exposes one to potential systemic abuse, neglect and exploitation.’
Brad is entitled to federal government aged care services to modify his home and to fund the equivalent of care for one hour a day, six days a week.
‘For someone who requires two people to turn him every four hours before any other care can be undertaken, this is grossly inadequate.’
Brad needs to be lifted in and out of bed. He needs regular physiotherapy and help showering and dressing.
‘Catheters alone amount to approximately $10,000 a year,’ said Janice. ‘Any life savings and superannuation saved for retirement by both Brad and his wife is spent largely on nursing care and medical equipment, leaving very little, if anything, for any other living expenses.’
The other option for Brad is a nursing home, where he would still need extra support.
‘To be forced to enter inappropriate care simply because the financial resources which are available to those who acquired their injury prior to age 65 are withheld, means that optimal care, personal dignity and quality of life are all compromised.’
Janice said NDIS funding should be extended to all people with disability, regardless of age.
‘This would contribute to the promotion of independence for people with a disability and reduce a significant amount of burden placed onto family members who take on a caring responsibility.’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.