Move beyond the buzzwords. Learn what person-centred disability support truly means, with real-life examples and practical strategies for support workers.

Discover why social support and companionship are vital parts of disability care—and how “just having company” can improve wellbeing and connection.

When we talk about sensory accessibility, most people think of noise, light, and touch. Quiet rooms, dimmed lighting, and soft furnishings are now becoming more common in inclusive design. But what often gets left out of the conversation are the less visible senses—taste, smell, and temperature.

For many people with disability, neurodivergence, or sensory processing differences, these “forgotten senses” can have a major impact on comfort, participation, and wellbeing. Whether it’s the strong smell of cleaning products, the texture of certain foods, or a room that’s too hot or cold, sensory overload can happen in ways that are easily overlooked.

Grief doesn’t just happen after a death. It can arise in response to any significant change or loss—such as a support worker leaving, a pet passing away, a move to a new home, or even a change in daily routine. For people with disability, these transitions may carry extra weight, especially when communication, routine, or trust are core parts of their wellbeing.

Despite this, grief in people with disability is often overlooked, misunderstood, or minimised. Some may not be given space to grieve at all. Others may not have the language to express their pain—or may be mislabelled as “acting out” when their behaviour is actually a sign of loss.

Adults with disability are first and foremost adults. Yet all too often, they’re spoken to in patronising tones, offered limited choices, or treated as though they lack the maturity or rights that other adults take for granted. Whether intentional or not, this behaviour is infantilising—and it undermines autonomy, self-esteem, and human dignity.

In disability support work, upholding adult status, agency, and decision-making rights is fundamental. Respecting someone’s autonomy doesn’t mean leaving them without help—it means offering support in a way that empowers, includes, and never diminishes.

In the world of disability support, strong relationships between clients and support workers are built on more than just good communication—they’re built on mutual respect. While much emphasis is placed on person-centred care and client choice (rightfully so), there’s often less public conversation about what support workers need to feel safe, respected, and empowered in their role.

In disability support settings, one of the most misunderstood behaviours is stimming—short for self-stimulatory behaviour. It might look like hand-flapping, rocking, pacing, finger-flicking, tapping, repeating words, or even making certain noises. To the untrained eye, stimming can seem disruptive, inappropriate, or even rude. But for many neurodivergent people—including those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or intellectual disability—stimming is a vital form of self-regulation.

Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition that affects intellectual development, behaviour, and physical features. It is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability, and it impacts both males and females, although males are often more severely affected. The condition is caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, which disrupts the production of a protein needed for brain development.

For families and support workers, understanding Fragile X syndrome means recognising its wide-ranging effects on learning, communication, and daily functioning. With the right supports in place, people with Fragile X can be empowered to build skills, connect with others, and participate fully in their communities.

Rett syndrome is a rare neurological condition that primarily affects girls and is most often caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene. Children with Rett syndrome typically develop normally in their first year, before gradually losing previously acquired skills such as speech, purposeful hand use, and coordination.

As the condition progresses, it can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s daily life—from walking and eating to breathing and communicating. Though the challenges are significant, supportive care and inclusive attitudes can help individuals with Rett syndrome live meaningful, connected lives.

Effective communication is at the heart of fostering independence and social inclusion for individuals with speech or language challenges. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools provide a range of options that empower users to express themselves clearly. This guide explores the various types of AAC tools and offers advice for selecting and integrating them into daily life.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that influences cognitive and physical development, yet many misconceptions persist about its impact. In Australia, families and carers play an essential role in dispelling myths and embracing the individuality of each person with Down syndrome.

Designing a sensory-friendly home does not have to be an expensive or overwhelming project. With careful planning and a focus on cost-effective solutions, you can create an environment that meets the unique sensory needs of your loved ones. Start by understanding the specific sensory triggers that affect your family member—whether it’s harsh lighting, unpredictable sounds, or textures that feel uncomfortable. By observing daily routines and noting what works well and what causes distress, you can begin to make thoughtful adjustments.

Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects the nervous system, typically leading to challenges with movement, speech, and behaviour. Despite these difficulties, children and adults with Angelman syndrome are often known for their bright, happy demeanour and frequent laughter. Learning about this syndrome can help families and carers provide the support needed to maximise a person’s quality of life.

Caring for a child with disabilities is a rewarding but demanding journey. Respite care offers a much-needed break for parents and caregivers, allowing them to rest and recharge. It’s not just about taking time off—respite care can also benefit your child by providing new social experiences and activities.

Fostering independence in daily activities builds confidence, self-esteem, and essential life skills for children with disabilities. It’s a gradual process that starts with small tasks and grows as your child develops new abilities.

For children with sensory processing difficulties, making your home sensory-friendly can greatly improve their comfort and well-being. Sensory overload from lights, sounds, or textures can lead to stress, meltdowns, or difficulty concentrating.

Holidays and celebrations are joyful occasions, but they can also present challenges for children with disabilities. Loud noises, crowded spaces, and unfamiliar routines may cause stress or anxiety. Adapting events to be more inclusive ensures that every child, regardless of ability, can participate and enjoy the festivities. With a little planning, you can create celebrations that are fun, engaging, and accessible for everyone.

Social inclusion is essential for every child, and support workers play a key role in ensuring children with disabilities can participate fully in their communities. At TomCare, we recognise the importance of fostering social inclusion and offer personalised support to help children build connections and develop social skills.