Supported Accommodation Assessments
Evaluating a person’s functional capacity is essential in understanding their level of independence and, importantly, determining the type and extent of accommodation support or assistance they may need. At Living to the Max Occupational Therapy, we are highly experienced in completing comprehensive functional capacity assessments to identify supported accommodation requirements. This includes the use of standardised assessment tools such as the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
Experience. That’s our difference.
A functional capacity assessment can differ in scope and complexity. In most cases, it involves reviewing a client’s ability to manage personal care tasks as well as everyday activities within the home and broader community.
Comprehensive assessments and reports can be prepared for various types of incapacity and across a wide range of circumstances.
What’s involved in the assessment?
One of our Occupational Therapists will arrange to meet with you in your home at a suitable time to review your usual daily routines. Where appropriate, you may be asked to demonstrate how you complete common tasks carried out in and around the home.
For individuals accessing the NDIS, the NDIA often requires a standardised assessment such as the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) to support recommendations relating to supported accommodation. Many of our Occupational Therapists are FIM credentialed and have extensive experience applying the tool in line with NDIA requirements.
The FIM is designed to provide an overview of the severity of a person’s disability. It consists of 18 items, each scored on a seven-point ordinal scale. Higher scores reflect greater independence in completing the assessed tasks. Overall scores range between 18 and 126.
The 18 items are grouped into two categories: 13 Motor items and 5 Cognitive items. The rating scale captures levels of performance from complete dependence through to full independence. It distinguishes between individuals who can complete activities independently and those who require assistance, whether from another person or through the use of equipment. Where assistance is required, the scale also measures the extent of that support.
The Assessment
In summary, the assessment determines:
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Your current level of independence
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Pre-injury and post-injury functioning (where relevant)
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Your ability to complete daily tasks
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Capacity to resume pre-injury roles (if applicable)
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Care and support requirements
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Needs for assistive technology, equipment, aids or home modifications
To form a comprehensive picture, the Occupational Therapist may use:
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Direct observation of selected activities
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Evaluation of relevant environments (such as home, workplace or school)
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Interviews with the client and, where possible, carers
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Review of available medical information and records
The Report
The Occupational Therapy Assessment report responds directly to the referral questions and includes an analysis of functional ability in areas such as:
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Personal care
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Household tasks
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Ability to care for others (for example, children or dependents)
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Community access (including driving, public transport, shopping, attending appointments and participating in community activities)
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Independent living skills (such as managing personal affairs)
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Participation in social activities
Consideration is also given to previous functioning as well as anticipated future needs.
The Recommendations
Recommendations are focused on clearly outlining your accommodation requirements, particularly the level of care and supports needed to maximise independence. These may include:
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Alternative housing options and/or home modifications to improve mobility, accessibility and independence
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Ongoing therapy, treatment or rehabilitation recommendations
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Assistive technology, aids or equipment, including details regarding type, cost, supply and maintenance
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Care arrangements such as domestic support, attendant care or nursing assistance
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, including NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments, and tailored interventions designed to maximise independence and participation in daily life. As an experienced NDIS OT team, we support clients with everything from recommending the right aids and assistive technology to conducting manual handling assessments and addressing unique physical, social or emotional needs. We are committed to helping our clients achieve their full potential with practical, evidence-based solutions.
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