Support at Home assistive technology and home modifications can help address practical difficulties an older person experiences at home. The useful first question is what activity has become difficult, rather than which product to buy or which room to renovate.
For example, a person might want to manage their shower routine with less assistance, reach an essential part of the home or use equipment more comfortably. An occupational therapist can explore the activity and environment, then discuss appropriate assessment and recommendations.
How the AT-HM scheme fits into Support at Home
The Australian Government's Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme provides a separate funding pathway for approved needs. It is distinct from the ongoing services quarterly budget. The aged care assessment and support plan identify what has been approved; funding allocation and arrangements with a provider also need to be confirmed.
Check your Notice of Decision and support plan with your provider before committing to an item or building work. Approval of ongoing Support at Home services does not automatically mean every proposed purchase is funded. Our Support at Home OT page explains the assessment enquiry process.
Equipment and building work involve different questions
Assistive technology includes equipment used for everyday activities. Home modifications involve changes to the property. A difficulty may call for discussion of one, both or another approach altogether.
An assessment can start with the way the task is currently completed. Tell the therapist what feels difficult, which assistance is available and whether existing equipment is being used. Include the person's preferences: a recommendation needs to fit the routine as well as the physical space.
Our assistive technology service page covers OT equipment assessments. For changes to the property, read about home modification assessments.
Prescriptions and individual suitability
Current AT-HM guidance requires home modifications to be prescribed by an OT working within their professional scope. Some assistive technology also requires a suitable health professional's prescription. The requirements depend on the item and the approved need.
Ask the provider what assessment, trial or documentation is needed for your particular request. A product description or another person's recommendation is not enough to establish that an item suits your circumstances.
Before an equipment discussion, it can be useful to note:
- The activity you want to make easier to manage.
- The equipment you already have and what is difficult about using it.
- Where the item would be used and stored.
- Who assists you and whether they need information about its use.
- Any practical concern you want the therapist to consider.
There is no need to buy an item to prepare for the appointment. Ask what information would help the therapist understand the concern first.
Ask for a clear cost explanation
Under current guidance, many AT-HM items attract a participant contribution. Prescription and wraparound services are classified as clinical supports and are government funded under the scheme. Ask your provider to explain the proposed charges, funding source and any contribution that applies to the item or work.
Request the explanation in writing. It should be clear which part is an assessment, which part is an item or installation, and what remains to be arranged. A statement that something is available through aged care is not a complete quote.
For people who moved from the former Home Care Packages program, unspent Commonwealth HCP funds generally need to be used first. Ask the provider how this applies to your account and approval before agreeing to a purchase.
Keeping the next steps manageable
Agree who will obtain quotes, confirm permissions and follow up outstanding information. If you rent, tell the provider and OT early so the relevant property consent can be addressed before any work is arranged.
Keep a copy of the recommendation and agreed next steps. When an item is delivered or work is completed, raise questions about its use through the agreed contact. A recommendation should lead to a practical follow-up plan, not leave the person unsure whom to call.
Program rules can change. Use the current government AT-HM guidance and your own support plan when discussing an actual purchase.
Common questions
Can I buy equipment from my quarterly services budget?
AT-HM uses a separate pathway. Ask your provider to confirm the approved funding and payment arrangements before buying an item.
Does an OT report guarantee funding?
No. It can provide relevant recommendations and evidence. Approval and available funding need to be confirmed through the program and provider.
Can I choose equipment I have seen online?
Bring the details to the discussion. Ask whether an assessment or trial is appropriate before deciding it will meet your needs.
What should I include in an OT enquiry?
Describe the activity, location, current provider arrangements and any equipment already used. Include the question you need the assessment to answer.
Make a referral to ask Ergo about an OT assessment for equipment or home modifications under your confirmed Support at Home arrangements.