Assistive Technology
As we age, staying safe, independent, and comfortable at home remains a priority.
Through the Support at Home program, Community Therapy’s team of Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists play a key role in helping older adults access equipment which is commonly referred to as assistive technology that supports daily living and overall wellbeing.
But what does this actually look like in practice?
Let’s explore how our Allied Health professionals at Community Therapy help clients access the right assistive technology—at the right time—through personalised assessment, guidance, and ongoing support.
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology refers to a wide range of devices, tools, or equipment that support people to perform tasks they may otherwise find difficult. For older adults, this can be as simple as a non-slip shower mat or as complex as a specialised electric recliner chair or mobility scooter.
Under the Support at Home program, Community Therapy helps clients access assistive technology based on their individual needs and goals.
Whether it’s improving safety, promoting independence, or enabling greater community participation, assistive technology is there to support greater quality of life!
The Role of Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists
At Community Therapy, our Allied Health team provides tailored support to identify, trial, and prescribe the right equipment.
This process typically starts with an in-home assessment by an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist. During this visit, they evaluate how a person moves around their home, their daily routines, and any difficulties they may be facing.
Following the assessment, equipment may be trialled either at the client’s home or at an equipment supplier’s premises. Our clinicians then complete any required clinical documentation, which supports the purchase of assistive technology under the individual’s Support at Home package.
What Types of Assistive Technology Are Available?
There’s a range of assistive technology options available through the Support at Home program. These are generally categorised into three levels:
1 – Low-risk equipment: These items can be purchased “off the shelf” with minimal risk, such as non-slip bathmats, assistive cutlery. These may be recommended with advice but don’t require a formal prescription.
2 – Under advice equipment: These items are slightly more complex and require professional advice from an allied health professional working within their scope of practice such as an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist. Examples include commode chairs and electric recliner chairs.
3 – Prescribed equipment: This category includes equipment that requires a comprehensive assessment and prescription to ensure it is safe and suitable. Think of rollators, powered wheelchairs, hospital beds, or pressure area cushions or mattress systems. These are prescribed only after careful assessment and often after testing multiple options.
Community Therapy supports clients across all levels of assistive technology, ensuring that recommendations are not only clinically appropriate – but aligned with the individual’s lifestyle and goals.
Who Is Eligible?
Any older adult who receives a Support at Home package can access assistive technology using funds from their plan.
Community Therapy partners with Support at Home providers throughout the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, and Mid North Coast regions to deliver these services.
If a client has funding allocated in their care plan for assistive technology, our team can be engaged to conduct assessments, trial equipment, and prepare reports required for approval and purchase.
A Real-World Example
A common scenario involves referrals for a comprehensive in-home assessment.
Let’s say an older adult is finding it difficult to manage their front stairs and is concerned about showering safely. An Occupational Therapist might recommend installing a handrail at the stairs and a grab rail next to the front door to support safe entry and exit. They may also prescribe an overtoilet aid and grab rail next to the toilet and a shower chair and grab rail in the shower to assist with independent toileting and personal hygiene.
These assistive technologies and home modifications not only reduce the risk of falls but help the individual remain independent and confident in their own space.
You can learn more about home modifications under the Support at Home program here.
Is It Fully Funded?
Under the Support at Home program, each client has access to a lifetime budget of $15,000 to fund assistive technology. This funding is designed to support clients to stay safe and well in their home environment.
In cases where more extensive or costly equipment is required, Community Therapy’s clinicians can provide the necessary clinical documentation to request additional funding.
These requests are reviewed by a Support at Home assessor who can approve an increased budget where appropriate.
Beginning Services with Community Therapy
At Community Therapy, we believe that the right support—combined with the right equipment—can make a world of difference. Our team is committed to helping older adults live safely, independently, and with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.
If you, or someone you care for, has a Support at Home package and could benefit from assistive technology, get in touch with Community Therapy.
We’re here to support you every step of the way.
