Supported Accommodation Assessments
Assessing one’s functional capacity is critical in determining their independence and, more importantly, what level of accommodation support and/or assistance they may require. At Living to the Max Occupational Therapy, we have extensive experience in undertaking functional capacity assessments to determine supported accommodation needs, including the use of standardised assessments tools such as the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
Experience. That’s our difference.
A functional capacity assessment can vary in its complexity and scope but generally the assessment analyses a client’s functional performance in the areas of personal self-care and general activities in and around the home and in the community.
Detailed assessments and reports can be done for any form of incapacity in relation to a wide range of issues or circumstances.
What’s involved in the assessment?
Our Occupational Therapist will meet you at your home at an agreed time in order to review your usual living activities. Where able, you will be asked to demonstrate how you undertake a range of tasks commonly performed in and around the home.
For NDIS participants, the NDIA commonly require the completion of a standardised assessment, such as the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) to support recommendations regarding supported accommodation. A majority of our OTs are FIM credentialled and are highly experienced in its use and of the requirements of the NDIA.
The FIM instrument is a basic indicator of the severity of one’s disability. It comprises 18 items, each of which is assessed against a seven-point ordinal scale, where the higher the score for an item, the more independently the client is able to perform the tasks assessed by that item. Total scores range from 18 to 126.
The items are divided into two major groups, the Motor items, of which there are 13, and the Cognitive Items, of which there are 5. The rating scale designates major graduations in behaviour from dependence to independence. The scale provides for the classification of individuals by their ability to carry out an activity independently, versus their need for assistance from another person or a device. If help is needed the scale assesses the degree of that need.
The Assessment
In summary, the assessment identifies your:
- Level of independence
- Pre-injury and post-injury status (if applicable)
- Ability to perform tasks
- Capacity to fulfill pre-injury roles (if applicable)
- Any requirements for care
- Any requirements for assistive technology/aids, equipment or home modifications
The status of the client is assessed through:
- Observation of performance of selected activities
- Assessment of the environment (eg. home, work, school)
- Interview with the client (and carer/s where possible)
- Available medical opinion, including medical records
The Report
The Occupational Therapy Assessment report addresses the questions posed in the referral instructions and analysis of function in areas such as:
- Personal care
- Domestic duties
- Capacity to care for others (eg. dependents, children)
- Community access ( eg. driving, transport, shopping, attending medical appointments and participating in community activites)
- Living skills (eg. ability to manage own affairs)
- Ability to engage in social activities
Consideration is also given to past and/or future requirements.
The Recommendations
Recommendations are aimed at clearly identifying your accommodation requirements, in particular your care needs and other supports you may require to live as independently as possible. These recommendations may include:
- Alternative accommodation options including home modifications to enhance independence, mobility and access
- Future therapy, treatment and/or rehabilitation needs
- Assistive technology/aids or equipment including type, cost, supply and maintenance
- Care requirements including domestic assistance, attendant care, nursing care etc
Our commitment to you
Here to support you
Living to the Max is a boutique Occupational Therapy provider based in Adelaide, South Australia. Since 2004, we have built a reputation as a knowledgeable, ethical, and client-centred provider, delivering high-quality Occupational Therapy services to a wide range of people in our community, including seniors, war veterans, and individuals with a disability.
We support clients facing various challenges, including physical, psychosocial, and mental health conditions, as well as neurological disorders, Autism, vision and hearing impairments, and cognitive decline.
Experience and expertise
Our experienced Occupational Therapists offer comprehensive in-home assessments and tailored interventions designed to maximise independence and participation in daily life. From recommending the right aids and assistive technology to addressing unique physical, social, or emotional needs, we are committed to helping our clients achieve their full potential.
Experience. That’s our difference.
Flexible service delivery
You choose how you want your services delivered. We are uniquely placed in our ability to provide services in one of three ways…..in your home, in our state-of-the-art clinic, or virtually via an easy to use web based platform. It provides us with unprecedented flexibility, allowing us to not only service the greater Adelaide area and Adelaide Hills, but also those in rural and isolated regions.
Enquire Today
You choose. In-home, In-clinic or Virtual Appointments Available.
Or call (08) 8331 0566