Assistive Technology (AT) Assessments Adelaide

At Thrive Health Therapies, we recognise the importance of assistive technology in supporting independence. From mobility aids to communication tools, these devices empower individuals to maintain or regain function. Our skilled occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech pathologists provide thorough assessments and tailored recommendations to enhance your daily life and achieve your goals.

What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

Assistive technology encompasses a broad range of tools, devices, and systems designed to enhance the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. These solutions can range from simple, low-cost aids to sophisticated, high-tech equipment. Examples of assistive technology include:

  • Low-cost/low-risk aids: Dressing aids, eating aids, shower stools, and personal alarms.

  • Mid-cost aids: Manual wheelchairs, pressure care aids, transfer equipment, and communication devices.

  • High-cost aids: Complex wheelchair systems, and advanced augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.

Assistive technology aims to support individuals in performing daily tasks, improving mobility, enhancing communication, and promoting safety.

The benefits of assistive technology are multifaceted, addressing physical, psychological, and social aspects of an individual’s life. Key advantages include:

  • Increased Independence Assistive technology enables individuals to perform tasks they might otherwise rely on others to complete, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-reliance.

  • Improved Quality of Life By removing barriers to everyday activities, assistive technology helps users participate more fully in social, recreational, and vocational pursuits.

  • Enhanced Safety Devices such as personal alarms and fall management systems reduce risks and provide peace of mind for users and their families.

  • Customised Support Tailored solutions ensure that assistive technology meets the unique needs and goals of each individual.

  • Support for Caregivers Assistive technology can ease the physical and emotional burden on caregivers by enabling users to manage more tasks independently.

What are the Benefits of Assistive Technology?

What Assistive Technology Do We Prescribe?

At Thrive Health Therapies, we provide tailored assessments to help you access the right assistive technology (AT) for your needs. Assistive technology recommendations are categorised as Low-Cost/Low-Risk Aids, Mid-Cost AT, or High-Cost AT, depending on their complexity and purpose.

Low-Cost/Low-Risk Aids (Small Aids)

These simple and affordable solutions can significantly improve your daily independence and safety. Examples include:

  • Gait aids (walking sticks, frames)

  • Eating aids

  • Dressing aids

  • Kitchen aids

  • Bath boards

  • Basic toileting aids

  • Visual aids

  • Shower stools/chairs

  • Non-slip bathmat

  • Bath transfer benches

  • Personal alarms

  • Falls management aids

  • Medication management aids

  • Threshold ramps (up to 35mm)

Mid-Cost Assistive Technology

For those requiring more substantial support, a comprehensive AT assessment and report can help identify the right options. These may include low or medium-cost/high-risk AT such as:

  • Scooters or manual wheelchair prescriptions

  • Power wheelchairs (without complex seating needs)

  • Static seating/recliners (non-wheelchair)

  • Bidets

  • Electronic bed and mattress prescription

  • Mobile hoists and slings for transfers

  • Customised shower chairs

  • Pressure care aids

  • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices

  • Gait and standing aids

High-Cost Assistive Technology

For individuals with complex needs, high-cost AT solutions may be recommended. These typically require detailed assessments and reports to ensure proper customisation and implementation. Examples include:

  • Complex wheelchair prescriptions

  • Specialised prescribed seating

What Does an Assistive Technology Assessment Involve?

An assistive technology assessment is a collaborative and thorough process that involves multiple steps to ensure the selected tools meet the user’s needs and goals.

Step 1: Initial Assessment

  • The process begins with an initial assessment conducted by a qualified therapist. During this stage:

  • Needs and goals are identified: The therapist works with the individual to understand their aspirations and challenges.

  • Medical history is reviewed: A comprehensive review of the user’s health records helps identify suitable assistive technology.

  • Environment is assessed: The therapist evaluates the home or community settings to determine practical requirements and limitations.

Based on this information, the therapist may recommend specific assistive technology to enhance the individual’s functional capabilities.

Step 2: Referral to an Assistive Technology Supplier

The therapist will then accompany you to a trusted assistive technology supplier. The therapist is present to provide guidance, answer questions, and collaborate with the supplier to find the most suitable solutions for your needs. This step involves:

  • Trialling assistive technology: The individual can test various devices to evaluate their suitability and comfort.

  • Performing functional activities: Trials may occur in real-world settings to ensure the technology meets the user’s needs.

  • Comparing options: Multiple devices may be trialled to determine the most effective solution.

The therapist and supplier work closely with the individual to ensure the selected technology aligns with their goals and when utilising NDIS funding, the NDIS “reasonable and necessary” criteria.

Step 3: Equipment Selection

After trialling and evaluating suitable options, the therapist assists the individual in selecting the most appropriate assistive technology. This step includes:

  • Obtaining quotations: Accurate cost estimates for the chosen technology.

  • Providing a clinical justification report: A detailed report is submitted to the NDIS, outlining the functional improvements and alignment with the individual’s goals.

Step 4: Equipment Delivery and Installation

Once funding is approved, the assistive technology is ordered, delivered, and installed. During this stage:

  • Re-measurements or retrials may occur: To ensure the technology is a perfect fit for the user’s needs.

  • Education is provided: The therapist guides the individual and their supports on operating and maintaining the equipment.

  • Ongoing support is available: Therapists provide follow-up support to address any adjustments or concerns.

Step 5: Review and Reassessment

Regular reviews are essential to ensure the assistive technology continues to meet the individual’s evolving needs. This step involves:

  • Adjusting equipment: Modifications may be made to accommodate changes in the individual’s condition or lifestyle.

  • Reassessing needs: If significant changes occur, the assistive technology may need to be re-scripted or replaced.

Who Conducts Assistive Technology Assessments?

At Thrive Health Therapies, assistive technology assessments are completed by our occupational therapists (OTs), physiotherapists or speech pathologists, depending on the type of assistive technology. Our therapists are experienced assessing individuals with a wide range of disabilities and conditions and are experts at writing reports that reflect your capacity and needs.

Click here to find out more about our occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech pathologists.

How We Deliver Assistive Technology Assessments at Thrive Health Therapies

Thrive Health Therapies offers community-based and clinic-based assessments.

  • Community-Based Services: We provide community-based occupational therapy in your home, school or kindergarten, or a location convenient to you throughout metropolitan Adelaide. Learn more about our service areas.

  • Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based sessions at our Findon clinic.

Funding Options for Occupational Therapy

We accept a variety of funding options, making augmentative and alternative communication therapy accessible for everyone:

Who Do We Provide Assistive Technology Assessments For?

At Thrive Health Therapies, our therapists complete assistive technology assessments with individuals of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Neurological disorders: stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, brain cancer, dementia, motor neurone disease, spinal muscular atrophy, Tourette syndrome, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy

  • Psychosocial conditions: anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more

  • Physical disabilities (e.g. amputees)

  • Chronic diseases: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, POTS, heart and vascular disease

  • Developmental disorders: autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

  • Intellectual disabilities

  • Genetic disorders

  • Due to the effects of aging

  • And more - enquire today!

Paediatric occupational therapist working with child during a functional capacity assessment at the Thrive Health Therapies clinic in Adelaide

FAQs About Assistive Technology Assessments

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • An assistive technology (AT) assessment evaluates an individual's needs, abilities, and environment to recommend tools, devices, or equipment that enhance independence and improve daily functioning. These assessments are conducted by qualified professionals, such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or speech pathologists.

  • Assistive technology assessments are beneficial for individuals with:

    • Physical disabilities or mobility challenges.

    • Communication difficulties.

    • Cognitive or learning impairments.

    • Sensory processing issues, such as vision or hearing loss.

    • Chronic illnesses or age-related conditions that affect daily functioning.

  • Recommendations depend on the individual’s needs and may include:

    • Mobility aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, or transfer equipment.

    • Communication devices: Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools, such as speech-generating devices or communication boards.

    • Cognitive aids: Timers, alarms, or memory aids to support daily routines.

    • Environmental modifications: Adjustable seating, ramps, or grab rails.

    • Sensory aids: Noise-cancelling headphones, visual supports, or sensory tools.

  • At Thrive Health Therapies, Assistive technology assessments are conducted by:

    • Occupational Therapists: Focus on tools and strategies to improve independence in daily tasks.

    • Physiotherapists: Specialise in mobility aids and devices to enhance physical movement.

    • Speech Pathologists: Recommend communication devices for individuals with speech or language difficulties.

  • Yes, assistive technology assessments are often covered under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if the AT is deemed necessary to support the participant’s goals. The NDIS may also fund the purchase and maintenance of approved assistive technology.

  • No! We can start working with new clients right away.

    Once we have received a referral form with all of your details, we are able to book an Initial Assessment as soon as possible, depending on your availability.

    You can find our paediatric referral forms here and our adult referral forms here.

    If you have any questions prior to referring please reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • No! You can refer yourself or your child directly via our online referral form, or reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • Yes! As a registered NDIS provider, Thrive Health Therapies meets rigorous NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. We are passionately committed to upholding the NDIS Practice Standards, providing high-quality and safe supports and services for NDIS participants.

    As a NDIS registered provider, we are also able to offer services to participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA.

  • As a registered NDIS provider, interpreter services are available free of charge for NDIS participants. Please inform us if you require this service, and we will arrange this for you.

Your Trusted NDIS Registered Provider in Adelaide

As a registered NDIS provider in Adelaide, Thrive Health Therapies meets rigorous NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. We are passionately committed to upholding the NDIS Practice Standards, providing high-quality and safe supports and services for NDIS participants.

As a NDIS registered provider, we offer services to participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA.

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