Housing Assessments at Inline Health Chiropractic

Steps in a Housing Assessment by an Occupational Therapist

An occupational therapist (OT) conducts a housing assessment to evaluate how well a person’s living environment supports their functional abilities and daily activities.

1. Initial Interview: The OT begins by interviewing the individual and, if applicable, their caregivers or family members. They gather information about the person’s medical history, current health status, functional abilities, daily routines, and specific concerns related to their living environment.
2. Observation: The OT conducts an observational assessment of the individual within their home. This involves observing how the person navigates their living space, performs daily activities (such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and using the bathroom), and interacts with furniture and equipment.
3. Functional Assessment: The OT assesses the person’s functional abilities in the context of their home environment. This may include evaluating mobility (e.g., ability to navigate stairs, use of mobility aids), balance, strength, endurance, fine motor skills (e.g., ability to grasp and manipulate objects), and activities of daily living (ADLs) such as grooming, meal preparation, and household chores.
4. Environmental Assessment: The OT evaluates the physical characteristics of the home environment. This includes assessing the layout, accessibility (e.g., presence of ramps, handrails, grab bars), safety features (e.g., lighting, flooring, fall hazards), and usability of furniture and equipment (e.g., kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures).
5. Functional Goals and Recommendations: Based on the assessment findings, the OT collaborates with the individual and their caregivers to establish functional goals related to improving independence and safety within the home. The OT then makes recommendations for modifications, adaptations, and assistive devices that can enhance the person’s ability to perform daily activities and navigate their environment more effectively.
6. Education and Training: The OT provides education and training to the individual and their caregivers on how to implement recommended strategies and use assistive devices safely and effectively within the home environment. This may include demonstrations, practice sessions, and guidance on incorporating new routines and habits.
7. Documentation and Follow-up: The OT documents the assessment findings, recommendations, and any prescribed interventions in a comprehensive report. They may schedule follow-up visits to reassess the person’s progress, adjust recommendations as needed, and ensure that the home environment continues to support the individual’s changing needs over time.

Throughout the housing assessment process, occupational therapists aim to promote independence, safety, and quality of life by optimizing the individual’s ability to function effectively within their home environment. They tailor their recommendations to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person while considering environmental factors that impact daily living activities.

Housing Assessments Essendon serving Southbank, South Yarra, and Melbourne | (03) 9379 5425