Functional Capacity and
Needs Assessments

At the core of our practice is a strong commitment to providing high-quality Functional Capacity Assessments. This is an area of deep personal interest, and we believe that a well-executed Functional Capacity Assessment forms the foundation for all other assessments. It is essential for justifying further evaluations, such as assistive technology (AT) recommendations, home modifications, and other occupational therapy services.

We are dedicated to continuous learning and improvement in this field because we know that a high-quality assessment is the key to unlocking possibilities, securing appropriate funding, and accessing the right services and supports. By focusing on delivering thorough and precise assessments, we aim to empower individuals to achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.

Benefits of an Occupational Therapist Conducting a Functional Capacity Assessment:

An Occupational Therapist (OT) is uniquely qualified to conduct Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA) due to their comprehensive understanding of how physical, cognitive, and emotional factors impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities. OTs are trained to evaluate the whole person, considering not only their medical condition but also their living environment, lifestyle, and personal goals.

Here are key reasons why an OT is the right fit for this type of assessment:

– Holistic Approach: OTs assess a person’s functional ability across multiple domains, including personal care, mobility, work-related tasks, social participation, and independent living skills. This broad perspective ensures a thorough evaluation of an individual’s strengths, challenges, and needs.

– Understanding of Daily Functioning: OTs are skilled in analysing a person’s ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). They understand how limitations in these areas affect independence and recommend practical solutions to overcome challenges.

– Tailored Recommendations: An OT provides customised recommendations for assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and home modifications based on the individual’s functional capacity. These tailored solutions ensure that the person can achieve the highest level of independence and safety in their daily life.

– Person-Centred Care: OTs focus on what is meaningful to the individual, aligning assessments with their personal goals and values. This personalised approach ensures that the recommendations are not only clinically sound but also relevant to the individual’s daily life and aspirations.

– Evidence-Based Practice: OTs use standardised tools and evidence-based methods to assess functional capacity, ensuring that results are reliable and measurable. This provides strong justification for securing funding, support services, and appropriate intervention plans.

– Bridging the Gap: OTs bridge the gap between medical diagnosis and practical support. Their assessments provide insight into how a person’s medical condition translates into real-world functional challenges, helping secure the right supports through the NDIS and other funding bodies.

Qualifications + Accreditations