What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapists (OT) focus on promoting health and wellbeing by enabling people to participate in the everyday occupations of life, such as self-care activities including showering, dressing, preparing food; productive activities such as education, work, volunteering and caring for others; and leisure/social activities, such as being part of a community group, engaging in a hobby, and being part of a friendship group. OT's play a particularly crucial role in enabling people experiencing disability to identify and implement methods that support their participation in occupations.

When should I see an OT?

There are a wide range of reasons why a person may benefit from consulting an occupational therapist. This may include accessing assistance to adjust to life after sustaining an injury, acquiring a short- or long-term illness or disability, or are in period of major life adjustment which is impacting health and wellbeing.

What is ACE OT?

ACE OT is an entirely mobile occupational therapy service based in Elmore Victoria. This means we will see you in your home and reduce the need for you to travel to attend appointments.

How are OT’s qualified?

In order to practise, occupational therapists must meet the following requirements:

  • Complete a recognised undergraduate or masters entry-level course in occupational therapy;

  • Complete a minimum of 30 hours per year of continuing professional development; and

  • Meet national regulation requirements as set out by the the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency.

What should I do to prepare and expect for my first OT consultation?

In your first consultation, your OT and you will have a discussion to explore how you complete all your activities of daily living (everyday tasks) and work with you to understand if you are having difficulties with completing tasks. The OT may complete performance measures to test your baseline function in particular areas (e.g., a cognitive assessment, arm range of motion). The OT will work with you to create goals and a treatment plan to address your needs.

What OT services does ACE OT provide?

ACE OT offer a broad range of services to individuals that can include:

  • Home and safety assessments including recommendations for minor modifications and equipment

  • Modification of environments (e.g., home, work, school, community) and adaptation of processes, including the application of ergonomic principles;

  • Falls prevention and strategies

  • Building capacity in independence with everyday tasks (personal, instrumental and community activities) including interventions to manage cognitive changes, visual changes and arm and hand functional changes

  • Assessment, customisation and prescription of assistive technologies / equipment

  • Pressure area care prevention and strategies

  • Education and support of individuals, including family members, caregivers, and others, through collaborative and consultative partnerships and family-centred approaches

  • TAC assessments and reports

  • NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments, SIL and SDA assessments and other supporting documentation

  • and much more