Sydney Cunningham

CURRENT ROLE:

I consider my role as an Occupational Therapist to be diverse, challenging and incredibly rewarding. I work predominantly with elderly clients and adults with disability who are supported through either DVA or the NDIS. I have the opportunity to work with clients of many different ages, conditions and walks of life to assist them in overcoming their challenges and working toward their goals/personal aspirations.

Having the opportunity to meet new people and assist them to remain independent in living their best-quality life is a driving factor for me both personally and professionally. Through my role as a community based Occupational Therapist, I have the opportunity to provide and engage in a range of different interventions including: home assessments to review one’s environment, function and falls risk, prescription of home modifications, prescription of aids/equipment and referral to additional services and supports. I also provide manual handling training to support/care staff of Cara.

I am also responsible for the portfolio of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA) Rehabilitation Appliances Program. I am responsible for providing staff with the latest information regarding DVA services and interventions, billing information and guidelines, DVA schedule updates, DVA file audits and auditing tools.

As an Occupational Therapist who values respect, commitment, creativity and providing high-quality, client centred care, Living to the Max aligns with my morals and continues to support me in building my skills and reaching my potential to best support others.

CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

I graduated from the University of South Australia in 2016 with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. I previously worked with children and their families under the NDIS but with a strong interest in aged care, I commenced my role at Living to the Max in 2017. I consider having the opportunity to support clients to remain living as safe and independently as possible in their own home for as long as possible an important role and accomplishment in itself.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE:

• Prescription of aids/equipment and assistive technology
• Falls assessment
• Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assessments
• Prescription of minor and major home modifications
• Assessment and prescription of continence needs
• Assessment and management of pressure care
• In-home rehabilitation
• Prescription of powered mobility
• Education of manual handling and client safety
• FIM accredited

Personally, I greatly enjoy spending time with my family and friends, cooking and travelling.