Daily living skills form the cornerstone of independence and quality of life. For many individuals, performing everyday tasks like dressing, preparing meals, or managing personal hygiene can be a significant challenge, especially for those with developmental delays, injuries, or disabilities. This is where occupational therapy (OT) plays a transformative role.
At Steps2Life, we focus on supporting individuals in building essential skills through personalized, goal-oriented therapy. One of the most effective ways we do this is through occupational therapy functional assessments, which provide a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s ability to perform daily tasks safely and independently. These assessments not only identify strengths and challenges but also help design targeted strategies to improve daily living skills, ultimately enhancing the individual’s independence and overall quality of life.
What Is an Occupational Therapy Functional Assessment?
An occupational therapy functional assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that explores a person’s ability to manage everyday tasks safely and independently. Conducted by a qualified occupational therapist, this assessment considers:
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Fine and gross motor skills
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Cognitive functioning
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Sensory processing
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Emotional regulation
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Communication and social interaction
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Environmental barriers and supports
The assessment helps inform an individualised plan aimed at supporting participation in daily life activities.
Who May Benefit from a Functional Assessment?
A functional assessment can be useful for:
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Children with developmental differences or sensory processing challenges
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Adults recovering from injury, illness, or surgery
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NDIS participants requiring evidence for support planning
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Older adults experiencing changes in mobility or cognition
It provides insight into a person’s strengths and challenges, guiding strategies to support independence at home, school, or in the community.
Key Areas Explored in Functional Assessments
A functional assessment often focuses on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), which may include:
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Self-care routines: bathing, dressing, grooming
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Meal preparation and kitchen safety
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Mobility and transfers: moving safely and navigating environments
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Time management and routines
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Community access: transport use, money management, shopping
At Steps2Life, assessments are tailored to each person’s goals and environment.
Why Functional Assessments Are Valuable for NDIS Planning
For NDIS participants or carers, an occupational therapy functional assessment can provide the clinical information required to support applications for assistive technology, home modifications, or ongoing therapy. Reports outline functional needs and may assist in demonstrating the impact of disability on daily living.
We also collaborate with families, support coordinators, and educators to provide a holistic approach.
How Steps2Life Supports Daily Living Goals
Our occupational therapists provide:
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Goal-oriented therapy sessions to build practical skills
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Home and school visits to support real-world environments
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Skill-building programs for children, teens, and adults
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Guidance for caregivers to promote consistency and reinforcement
Support is always tailored to the individual’s needs and circumstances.
Working Toward Independence Through OT
Developing functional skills is key to enabling individuals to participate more fully in daily life. An occupational therapy functional assessment is often the first step in identifying the right supports and strategies tailored to each person’s needs, providing insights into how therapy can support improved independence and day-to-day functioning.
Connect with Our Team for a Functional Assessment
Our team is here to support you in understanding your needs and planning the right path forward. A functional assessment helps us identify specific challenges and create strategies tailored to your goals.
Call us on 1300 009 006 or email admin@steps2life.com.au to arrange a discussion with our specialists and take the first step toward personalised support.
