The NDIS is a crucial and much-needed program that enables people living with disability to have an improved quality of life. It does so by providing funding to eligible people, thus helping them gain access to jobs, new skills, greater independence and time with family. In addition, the NDIS connects people with disabilities to services available within their community.
While the NDIS is highly beneficial, it can still be challenging to navigate. Therefore, various experts have come forward to lend crucial aid to those relying on the NDIS. One group of these aides is known as Lifestyle Attendants.
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What is a Lifestyle Attendant?
A Lifestyle Attendant is similar to (though not precisely like) a Personal Care Worker or Disability Support Worker. However, Lifestyle Attendants work with customers to ensure they are empowered to direct their services and completely control their lifestyle.
By working with a Lifestyle Attendant, you receive the best possible support to optimise your lifestyle, do what you want, and – most importantly – determine how you live your life.
On the other hand, the relationship between a Lifestyle Attendant and their customers can be very mutually beneficial.
Source: experian.com
What is it like being a Lifestyle Attendant?
A Lifestyle Attendant’s day typically involves a wide variety of – and often many- rewarding tasks. Here are a few of their most common duties and why they are so important.
1- Personal care. This entails supporting customers to shower, maintain personal hygiene, dress and transfer from and to assistive equipment (manual or hoist transfer).
2- Help with complex health needs. Lifestyle Attendants who have received the requisite training will be able to assist with these critical tasks.
3- Help with meal preparation. The customer selects which meals you prepare and when.
4- Domestic assistance. You may be asked to help keep customers’ homes clean, tidy and safe.
5- Accompaniment. Many customers receive community access support. So, Lifestyle Attendants accompany customers as they step out into the community to connect with other NDIS services, run errands or see loved ones.
6-Transportation support. Lifestyle Attendants ensure their customers can access all they need while preserving safe and punctual travel.
So, if this interests you, the list below outlines the qualifications that Lifestyle Attendants need.
Lifestyle Attendant Qualifications
Lifestyle Attendants often work with customers whose complex needs require extensive personal care. Therefore, the role requires qualifications that equip you with the right knowledge and skills to provide quality and safe care. Some of these credentials include the following:
- Working with Children Clearance or Current DCSI Child Clearance.
- DHS Disability, DCSI Disability or NDIS Worker Screening Check
- A First Aid Certificate (no older than three years)
- Manual Handling Certificate (no older than two years)
- CPR Certificate
- COVID-19 Infection Control Training
- NDIS Orientation Module
- South Australian Driver’s License (you must also own a reliable vehicle)
- A certificate in Aged Care, Disabilities or Community is highly desirable.
- Previous experience working with people with a disability
- Full COVID-19 vaccination with a TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) approved vaccine (as mandated by the Government of South Australia).
So, if you have the right qualifications and want to be a Lifestyle Attendant, now is the time. Don’t hesitate to send in your application for the chance to take up a role as a vital source of support to someone who needs it.
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Duties and Responsibilities of a Lifestyle Attendant
A Lifestyle Attendant is a professional who provides personal assistance to individuals or families to enhance their daily lives. The duties and responsibilities of a Lifestyle Attendant are diverse and can vary depending on the needs of the client. Here are some of the most common duties and responsibilities of a Lifestyle Attendant:
- Personal Assistance: A Lifestyle Attendant helps their clients with personal tasks such as running errands, grocery shopping, managing appointments, and handling correspondence. They may also assist with personal grooming and hygiene, including dressing, bathing, and hair care.
- Travel Arrangements: Lifestyle Attendants are often responsible for making travel arrangements for their clients, including booking flights, making hotel reservations, and arranging transportation. They may also help with packing and preparing for the trip.
- Event Planning and Coordination: Lifestyle Attendants may be tasked with planning and coordinating events, such as parties, dinners, or business meetings. This may include finding a venue, arranging catering, and managing logistics.
- Household Management: A Lifestyle Attendant may be responsible for managing a client’s household, including supervising staff, maintaining the home, and overseeing the household budget.
- Social Media Management: In today’s digital age, many Lifestyle Attendants are also responsible for managing their client’s social media accounts, ensuring that they are up to date and engaging with followers.
Overall, the role of a Lifestyle Attendant is to enhance the quality of life for their clients by providing personal assistance and support. They must be able to adapt to the unique needs of their clients and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. A Lifestyle Attendant must also be discreet and maintain a high level of confidentiality, as they are often privy to personal and sensitive information.
Conclusion
In summary, becoming a Lifestyle Attendant can be a fulfilling and rewarding career for those who enjoy helping others and thrive in a fast-paced environment. The role of a Lifestyle Attendant is diverse and can encompass a wide range of duties and responsibilities depending on the needs of the client. However, there are certain key skills that are essential for success in this field, including strong communication skills, organisational skills, time management skills, flexibility, and cultural competence.
Becoming a Lifestyle Attendant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as relevant certification or training courses. On-the-job training may also be necessary, as each client has unique needs and preferences.
Advancement opportunities for Lifestyle Attendants include specialising in a specific field, pursuing self-employment, or engaging in ongoing professional development. The lifestyle industry is constantly evolving, and staying up to date with trends and best practices is essential for success in this field.
Source: canva.com
In conclusion, for those who are passionate about helping others and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, becoming a Lifestyle Attendant can be an excellent career choice. By providing personal assistance and support to their clients, Lifestyle Attendants can enhance the quality of life for those they serve and make a positive impact in their communities.
