In most cases, those with disabilities are excluded and have a more challenging time forming social relationships and participating in community activities. But these two are incredibly important for any individual’s physical and emotional well-being, regardless of their complications.
To bridge the gap between the individuals with disabilities and community activities, various plans and programs have been developed to give equal opportunity for their growth and development.
Specifically, under the NDIS core support category, the Assistance with Social and Community plan primarily focuses on giving participants the chance to participate in integrated activities. So what are some of the activities that can be carried out and supported by this plan? Here are five community activities and their benefits.
Music Therapy
Enjoying music and allowing it to stimulate your mind and emotions in the company of others has great benefits for individuals. It helps participants enhance their group skills and boosts their self-esteem.
Music therapy can also develop one’s physical functions. It helps keep motor senses sharp and exercises the body when it encourages movement through body expression, singing, dancing, or instrument playing, resulting in holistic development.
Arts and Craft
Art is a common outlet for expressing their emotions and creating something meaningful in the process, sometimes in unconventional ways. Because artmaking engages so much of oneself, its benefits are also tremendous.
Arts and crafts inspire self-expression and creativity, which in turn develops the individual’s senses and responses. The brilliant thing about these activities is that it is a peaceful outlet suitable for all ages and is a productive use of time.
Nature Activities
Exposure to nature has been known to affect people regardless of the amount of activity done positively. It is also an easy way to relax, and anyone can do it.
Many facilities and programs offer access to natural environments that even come with related activities that prove to be therapeutic and stress relieving. Doing these activities with friends and family is also a great way to develop social skills.
Gardening
Gardening is a small-scale activity that creates a more intimate bond with your community. It is also therapeutic and calming. Gardening also contributes to the relationship between the gardener and nature, as well as their company. The cognitive reward of contributing to the environment also relieves tension and reduces stress.
Exercise
The proper amount of physical activity has been proven to keep one’s body physically fit and healthy. It also has benefits for mental and emotional health. Because some disabilities are physical, exercise might appear to be an exclusive activity. But that’s not exactly the case.
Some exercises are acceptable for those with physical disabilities with the approval of your doctor. Also, training is not only limited to physical activity. Some exercises engage your mind muscles instead. Both types of practices are great activities for social and community participation and physical and mental health.
To reap the benefits of all these activities, make sure to include them in your goals as you discuss your plan with your provider. If you are already under a project, you can communicate with your plan manager to participate in community activities and have them covered by the NDIS, then monitor your activities and budget through the NDIS my portal.
