Top 7 Daily Living Skills Supported by SIL Services
Learning and improving daily living skills is an essential part of fostering independence, especially for people with disabilities. Through Supported Independent Living (SIL) services, NDIS participants can access tailored support that helps them confidently navigate everyday routines. These services not only promote autonomy but also enhance quality of life.
In this blog, we explore the top 7 daily living skills supported by SIL services under the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), including real-world examples and how you can access support.
What Are Daily Living Skills?
Daily living skills refer to the essential tasks and routines people need to manage their day-to-day lives. This can include everything from personal care and cooking to budgeting and social communication.
These skills are crucial for building self-sufficiency, especially for people with intellectual disabilities or other cognitive and functional challenges.
How SIL Services Support Daily Living Skills
SIL (Supported Independent Living) provides help or supervision with daily tasks so participants can live as independently as possible, either in shared housing or on their own. These services are designed to support people who have higher support needs and require ongoing assistance.
Through NDIS SIL services, participants can develop and maintain improved daily living skills across a wide range of activities.
What Are The Top 7 Daily Living Skills?
1. Personal Care & Hygiene
SIL providers assist participants in developing routines for:
- Showering and grooming
- Toileting
- Dental hygiene
- Dressing appropriately
This ensures participants can manage personal hygiene independently and safely.
2. Meal Preparation & Nutrition
Cooking is an important life skill. SIL services offer support in:
- Planning meals
- Grocery shopping
- Safe use of kitchen appliances
- Basic cooking techniques
Participants learn to prepare nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs.
3. Household Tasks & Cleaning
Keeping living spaces clean and organised supports mental and physical wellbeing. SIL services help with:
- Vacuuming, mopping, dusting
- Dishwashing and laundry
- Making the bed and organising storage
These tasks are often broken down into manageable steps for learning.
4. Money Management & Budgeting
Financial literacy is key to independent living. Participants are supported to:
- Understand the value of money
- Budget for bills, groceries, and personal spending
- Learn how to use ATMs or online banking
These skills reduce dependence on others and support financial control.
5. Communication & Social Skills
SIL services encourage daily interaction and social inclusion. Skills include:
- Using phones and digital devices
- Practicing conversations
- Understanding body language and emotions
- Attending community events
Social skills help build friendships, self-esteem, and community participation.
6. Transport & Travel Training
Getting from one place to another confidently is empowering. SIL providers assist with:
- Reading timetables
- Using public transport
- Road safety awareness
- Route planning and orientation
These skills support participation in work, education, and community life.
7. Health & Medication Management
Maintaining physical and mental health is foundational. Support includes:
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Understanding appointments and healthcare routines
- Building awareness of personal health needs
These routines ensure health safety and reduce the need for hospitalisation.
NDIS and Improved Daily Living Skills
The Improved Daily Living Skills support category falls under Capacity Building Supports in your NDIS plan. It includes funding for services like:
- One-on-one coaching
- Therapy to develop life skills
- Assessment and planning sessions
Improved daily living skills NDIS line item:
NDIS Code: 15_037_0117_1_3
SIL support can also be funded under Core Supports, especially when 24/7 supervision or assistance is required.
How to Access Supported Independent Living
To get SIL included in your NDIS plan, you’ll typically need:
- A Functional Assessment (e.g., OT report)
- A documented SIL support need
- Clear goals in your NDIS plan about independent living
Your NDIS support coordinator or LAC (Local Area Coordinator) can guide you through the SIL application and provider selection process.
Also read our latest blog on Top 5 NDIS Supports to Boost Daily Living and Independence.
Final Thoughts
Mastering daily living skills is key to living a full, independent life. Through the help of SIL-supported services, NDIS participants can develop the confidence, structure, and practical tools needed to live with dignity and freedom.
For participants seeking trusted, person-centred support, Nurse Aid Australia’s Supported Independent Living services in Adelaide offer a tailored approach to daily skill-building and long-term independence.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Nurse AID Australia, we’re here to support you in turning your NDIS goals into real-world outcomes. Whether you’re looking to join community activities, improve your social confidence, or access tailored support services—we’re just a click away.
Have questions? Contact our friendly team to discuss how we can help you or your loved ones thrive through the NDIS.
