Case Study 1 - Jane

Jane is a 50 year old woman with an intellectual disability and autism. She is non verbal, has sensory issues and communicates via hand gestures or actions. These hand actions, for example, may include holding a staff member’s hand or pushing them away. When she becomes anxious, she can become aggressive towards others or will use her hands to slap and punch herself.

Jane resides in a supported accommodation house with 4 other residents with 24 hour staffing. She responds well to routine and consistency and regular staff interactions. Jane attends a day centre where she engages in sensory activities, however, her sensory challenges mean she doesn’t want anyone to touch her feet.

Jane was attending a local podiatry service under the Medicare Benefit Scheme for nail care. She found attending any medical clinic stressful and would become anxious as it was not part of her routine and an unfamiliar environment. The noise and smells of the clinic and waiting for her appointment increased her anxiety. When she did see the podiatrist, Jane would refuse to sit in the podiatry chair, and on the occasions she did, would refuse the podiatrist touching her feet.

Jane’s nails became extremely long, ingrown and had thickened due to a fungal infection. Jane was unable to communicate to staff if she was in any pain, however she began to refuse wearing shoes, likely due to the pressure of the shoes on her nails.

It was deemed unsafe for her to attend because she wouldn’t wear shoes and her day placement was ceased.

Podiatry was then offered through NDIS. The podiatrist was able to provide home visits where Jane was more relaxed and comfortable. Flexible short visits were able to be organised to suit Jane’s sensory needs and introduce her podiatric therapy supports.

As a result, Jane was able to start wearing shoes and has returned to day placement.

Without access to podiatry services through the NDIS, Jane’s ability to participate in everyday activities was significantly limited. Thanks to flexible and regular home visits provided by NDIS-funded podiatry services, her individual needs were met—leading to a more inclusive, independent, and fulfilling life.