Our Position

Dietitians Australia recommends the implementation of greater oversight, accountability, education and support for the provision of food and nutrition for all Australian’s impacted by disability to reduce the risk of preventable deaths.

Background

Studies show that people with disability have poorer self-reported general health and higher prevalence of health and behavioural risk factors, compared to people without disability.

Individuals with disability may also have unique food, fluid and nutritional needs.

Access to healthy food, fluids and person-centred nutrition care are significant factors in promoting both the mental and physical health of people with disability.

Improved access to nutrition care and Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) services through policy reform, care coordination, funding and education, will lead to improvements in the health and wellbeing of people with disability, reductions in preventable deaths and increased social and economic participation.

For more, download our full briefing paper on Disability Advocacy.