life-solutions-ot-adelaide

Ageing at Home in Adelaide: How Occupational Therapy Works Under the New Support at Home Program

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 07:41:11 GMT

What the new aged care system means for staying safe and independent in your own home — and how an OT can help.

If you've been looking into aged care support recently, you may have noticed that things have changed. As of 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program replaced Home Care Packages as the main way older Australians receive funded support to live well in their own homes. A new system can feel confusing, especially when you're already managing a lot for yourself or an ageing parent. At Life Solutions OT, we want to make one part of it clearer: where occupational therapy fits in, and how it can help you or someone you love stay safe and confident at home.

A quick word on what's changed

The Support at Home program is the Australian Government's new in-home aged care system. If you or a family member were already receiving a Home Care Package, you would have moved across automatically — there was no need to reapply, and services continued without interruption. The new program keeps the same goal at its heart: helping older Australians remain living safely and independently at home for as long as possible. What's different is that there are now more funding levels, budgets are released quarterly, and — importantly for our work — there's a dedicated funding stream for equipment and home modifications.

Where an occupational therapist comes in

An occupational therapist (OT) helps people keep doing the everyday activities that matter to them — getting in and out of the shower safely, moving around the home, preparing meals, and managing personal care. Under Support at Home, occupational therapy sits within clinical care, which means there's no out-of-pocket contribution for these supports.

We visit you in your own home, see how you actually move through your day, and recommend practical solutions tailored to your space and your goals. Our focus is always on building on what you can already do, rather than taking over — small, well-chosen changes often make the biggest difference to confidence and safety.

Separate funding for equipment and home modifications

One of the most useful features of the new program is the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme. This provides separate funding — on top of your regular quarterly budget — specifically for equipment and changes to your home. In practice, that means buying a shower stool or installing grab rails doesn't eat into the budget you rely on for everyday care.

Funding is assessed based on your individual needs and allocated in tiers, with the higher tier (up to around $15,000) available for more substantial home modifications. More complex or higher-cost items need to be prescribed by a qualified health professional, such as an occupational therapist — which is exactly the kind of assessment we provide.

What an in-home OT assessment looks like

When we visit, we take the time to understand your routine, your health, and the areas of your home where you feel less confident — often the bathroom, the bedroom, and steps or entryways. From there, we make clear, practical recommendations. That might be falls prevention strategies, equipment such as rails or a shower chair, or modifications like a ramp or non-slip surfaces.

Where home modifications are needed, we can prepare the supporting reports, help with obtaining quotes, and coordinate with builders so the process stays smooth and stress-free for you and your family.

How to get started

Your need for assistive technology or home modifications is assessed as part of your aged care assessment through My Aged Care, and your Support at Home provider or case manager can help arrange occupational therapy as part of your support plan. If you're not sure where to begin, that's completely normal — a good first step is simply asking your provider whether an OT assessment is right for you.

At Life Solutions OT, we provide mobile, in-home occupational therapy across metropolitan Adelaide and surrounding regions — including the Adelaide Hills, southern Adelaide, McLaren Vale, and Victor Harbor. Whether it's a home safety and falls prevention assessment, equipment recommendations, or home modifications to keep you moving around with confidence, our focus is on helping you stay safely and independently in the home you love.

Want to understand how occupational therapy could support you or an older family member under the Support at Home program? Get in touch with Life Solutions OT to find out more or to arrange a visit.

Travelling Overseas With a New Wheelchair — A Real-World Case Study

Thu, 28 May 2026 02:19:49 GMT

From NDIS access to South Korea: Shem's story

At Life Solutions OT, we recently supported a client to travel internationally with a newly prescribed wheelchair. The trip to South Korea was a meaningful milestone, but what made it particularly significant was everything that had led up to it.

A journey that started well before the wheelchair

Shem's story with Life Solutions OT didn't begin with a wheelchair assessment. It began with NDIS access. We supported Shem through the full application process, helping him understand his eligibility, build his supporting evidence, and navigate a system that can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.

From there, we worked together through his first NDIS plan — identifying his goals, understanding what funding categories applied, and making sure the supports he needed were actually reflected in his plan. Over time, that support has translated into a range of assistive technology and home modifications that have genuinely transformed his day-to-day life:

- Front and rear access ramps for safe entry and exit at home

- An electric height-adjustable bed to support safe transfers and sleep positioning

- A new commode for dignified and independent bathroom access

- An Apex-C rigid frame wheelchair with Abler DuoDrive power assist

Each of these outcomes required assessment, justification, and coordination through the NDIS — and each one has contributed to Shem being able to live more independently and safely at home.

The wheelchair prescription

The Apex-C rigid frame wheelchair paired with the Abler DuoDrive power assist system was prescribed following a detailed wheelchair and seating assessment. This combination offers a lightweight, responsive manual chair with intelligent power assistance — well suited to someone who is active and wants to move independently across a variety of environments.

What made the South Korea trip particularly interesting was the timing. The equipment was delivered just one week before departure. There were understandable concerns around airline handling, equipment reliability, and limited familiarisation time. After thorough setup, education, and a pre-travel review, we supported Shem's decision to proceed — and his confidence proved well-founded.

The outcome

- Used the wheelchair independently throughout the entire trip

- Relied on the power assist system daily across varied environments

- No issues with flights, airport handling, or transport

- Returned home with greater confidence and skill

Notably, Shem reported that travelling actually accelerated his learning. Being immersed in real-world environments — navigating public transport, tourist locations, and crowded urban spaces — fast-tracked his independence with the chair in ways that clinical practice alone may not have achieved.

Performance in real-world environments

The wheelchair and power assist performed well across urban environments, tourist locations, public transport, and busy community settings. The cruise control feature was particularly valuable for navigating hilly terrain, maintaining consistent speed both uphill and downhill and meaningfully reducing fatigue over long days.

Some minor challenges were noted on uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and sloped footpaths — consistent with the expected performance profile of a rigid frame chair in older urban settings, and not out of the ordinary for international travel.

Impact on independence

Perhaps the most significant outcome was the reduction in reliance on support workers for mobility throughout the trip. Shem was able to move through unfamiliar environments on his own terms — a shift that carries real meaning well beyond the holiday itself, and one that reflects the cumulative impact of well-matched, well-funded supports.

"If you want to travel, go travel. Go everywhere and try — you'll figure it out while you're there."

— Shem, Life Solutions OT client

What this means for NDIS participants

Shem's story is a good reminder that the NDIS, when navigated well, can fund supports that genuinely change what is possible for someone. It also highlights that wheelchair prescription is not just about function at home — it is about enabling the life a person wants to live. Getting the right chair, with the right setup and education, matters enormously.

If you are in Adelaide and looking for support with NDIS access, wheelchair and seating assessments , assistive technology , or home modifications , Life Solutions OT provides mobile, in-home consultations across metropolitan Adelaide and surrounding regions including the Adelaide Hills, Southern Adelaide, Victor Harbor, and McLaren Vale.

Why You Should Have a Wheelchair Assessment Conducted by an Occupational Therapist

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 02:05:10 GMT

Choosing the right wheelchair is one of the most important decisions for anyone with mobility challenges. It’s not just about getting from one place to another—it’s about comfort, independence, safety, and quality of life. That’s why having a wheelchair assessment conducted by an occupational therapist (OT) is essential.

A properly prescribed wheelchair can significantly improve daily function, while the wrong one can lead to discomfort, injury, and reduced independence. In this guide, we’ll explain why a professional wheelchair assessment is so important, what’s involved, and how it can make a meaningful difference.

What Is a Wheelchair Assessment?

A wheelchair assessment is a comprehensive evaluation carried out by an occupational therapist to determine the most suitable mobility solution for an individual. It goes far beyond simply selecting a wheelchair—it involves understanding the person’s physical needs, lifestyle, environment, and long-term goals.

During the assessment, the OT considers factors such as:

Posture and seating requirements
Mobility limitations and physical abilities
Pressure care needs
Transfer methods (e.g. bed to chair)
Home and community environments
Daily activities and routines

The goal is to ensure the wheelchair is tailored to the individual, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Preventing Pain and Injury

One of the biggest risks of using an unsuitable wheelchair is the development of pain, pressure injuries, and long-term physical complications.

Without proper support, users may experience:

Poor posture leading to back, neck, or shoulder pain
Pressure sores from prolonged sitting
Circulation issues
Increased fatigue

An occupational therapist assesses seating, cushioning, and positioning to ensure the body is properly supported. This reduces the risk of pressure injuries and promotes better posture over time.

For individuals who spend long periods in their wheelchair, this level of precision is critical for maintaining health and comfort.

Improving Independence and Daily Function

A well-fitted wheelchair can dramatically improve independence. It allows individuals to move more efficiently, perform daily tasks, and participate in activities that matter to them.

An OT will assess how the wheelchair fits into everyday life, including:

Moving around the home
Accessing the bathroom and kitchen
Getting in and out of the chair
Navigating outdoor environments
Transport and travel needs

By tailoring the wheelchair to these activities, the user can maintain or regain independence in areas that might otherwise be challenging.

Matching the Right Wheelchair to the Right Person

There are many different types of wheelchairs available, and choosing the right one can be overwhelming without professional guidance.

Some common options include:

Manual wheelchairs
Powered wheelchairs
Lightweight or folding models
Tilt-in-space or recline chairs
Custom seating systems

Each option has its own benefits and limitations. An occupational therapist considers the individual’s strength, endurance, coordination, and environment to recommend the most appropriate solution.

For example, someone with limited upper body strength may benefit from a powered wheelchair, while another person may prioritise a lightweight manual chair for ease of transport.

Ensuring Proper Fit and Positioning

A wheelchair that doesn’t fit correctly can cause more harm than good. Even small issues with seat width, depth, or back support can lead to discomfort and long-term problems.

During a wheelchair assessment, the OT takes detailed measurements and evaluates:

Seat height, width, and depth
Backrest height and angle
Armrest and footrest positioning
Head and trunk support needs

They also assess how the user sits in the chair over time, ensuring proper alignment and pressure distribution.

This level of customisation ensures the wheelchair supports the body correctly and adapts to the user’s needs.

Supporting NDIS Funding and Equipment Approval

For individuals accessing support through the NDIS, a wheelchair assessment is often required to secure funding for mobility equipment.

An occupational therapist plays a key role in this process by:

Conducting a formal assessment
Providing clinical justification for the recommended wheelchair
Preparing a detailed report aligned with NDIS guidelines
Recommending additional supports or accessories if needed

A thorough and evidence-based report increases the likelihood of funding approval and ensures the participant receives the most appropriate equipment.

Considering the Home and Community Environment

A wheelchair doesn’t exist in isolation—it needs to work within the user’s environment. That’s why OTs assess both the home and community settings as part of the process.

This may include:

Doorway widths and access points
Flooring surfaces and gradients
Bathroom and kitchen layouts
Outdoor terrain and accessibility

The OT may also recommend home modifications, such as ramps or widened doorways, to ensure the wheelchair can be used safely and effectively.

This holistic approach ensures the wheelchair fits seamlessly into the user’s daily life.

Enhancing Comfort and Long-Term Use

Comfort is a major factor in wheelchair use, especially for individuals who rely on their chair for extended periods each day.

An occupational therapist helps optimise comfort by recommending:

Pressure-relieving cushions
Adjustable backrests
Tilt or recline features
Supportive seating systems

These features not only improve comfort but also support long-term health and wellbeing. A comfortable wheelchair encourages consistent use and reduces the risk of complications.

Adapting to Changing Needs

Mobility needs can change over time due to ageing, injury, or progression of a condition. A wheelchair that works today may not be suitable in the future.

An OT takes a forward-thinking approach by considering:

Potential changes in mobility
Long-term goals and lifestyle
Future equipment needs

They can also provide ongoing reviews and adjustments to ensure the wheelchair continues to meet the user’s needs over time.

Promoting Safety for Users and Carers

Safety is another critical reason to have a professional wheelchair assessment. Improper equipment can increase the risk of falls, tipping, or strain injuries for both the user and their carers.

An occupational therapist assesses:

Safe transfer techniques
Stability and balance in the chair
Braking systems and controls
Carer support requirements

They may also provide training on how to use the wheelchair safely, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Personalised Recommendations and Expert Guidance

Perhaps the most valuable aspect of a wheelchair assessment is the personalised guidance provided by an occupational therapist.

Rather than guessing or relying on generic advice, individuals receive:

Tailored recommendations based on their unique needs
Access to professional expertise and clinical reasoning
Ongoing support and adjustments as required

This ensures the wheelchair is not only suitable but also optimised for comfort, function, and independence.

Final Thoughts

A wheelchair is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s a tool that supports independence, mobility, and quality of life. Choosing the right one requires careful consideration, expert knowledge, and a personalised approach.

Having a wheelchair assessment conducted by an occupational therapist ensures that every detail is taken into account, from physical needs and posture to environment and daily activities. It reduces the risk of injury, improves comfort, and supports long-term wellbeing.

Whether you’re accessing funding through the NDIS or simply looking for the best mobility solution, a professional wheelchair assessment is a crucial step in making the right choice.