Assessment for Equipment Needs

An equipment assessment becomes essential when a condition, whether progressive or non-progressive, significantly affects or will impact your child's functioning. It's crucial for determining the appropriate selection of aids and adaptations to enhance their independence. These adaptations range from simple items like adapted cutlery to complex modifications such as housing adaptations. The occupational therapist utilizes their clinical expertise to evaluate the necessary level of adaptive equipment required.

Where and How is the Assessment Conducted?

The Equipment assessment can be conducted in a clinic, at home, or in school settings. Typically, it involves observing activities related to transportation, home safety, and mobility. By closely observing these tasks, the therapist can identify the primary safety risks and provide recommendations on the most appropriate equipment to facilitate safe engagement in these activities.

Conditions that may require Equipment Assessment

Several conditions may need an Occupational Therapy assessment to ascertain whether your child requires aids or adaptations. These include:

Limited limb functionality
Cognitive support
Challenges with prolonged walking
Eating difficulties
Muscle weakness
Prolonged standing difficulties
Dressing challenges
Handwriting issues

The occupational therapist has a great knowledge of the type of help available and if your child is suitable for this equipment. They will use their skills to determine the level of disability your child is experiencing and offer advice on what help is available.

Conditions Considered in an Equipment Assessment

Here is a compilation of conditions that an occupational therapist may address when evaluating the necessity for adaptive aids or equipment:

Stroke
Neurological disorders
Multiple Sclerosis
Dyspraxia
Developmental Coordination Disorder

What information can I expect after an Equipment Assessment?

After the assessment, the therapist will review the assessment outcomes with you, discussing how these findings affect both home and school environments. Should you desire, you can request an Equipment report based on the assessment results. This report will offer a comprehensive analysis of the condition's impact on your life, along with a treatment plan and recommendations aimed at enhancing your daily living.

Interventions following an Equipment Assessment Following an equipment assessment, it is probable that your child may benefit from additional Occupational Therapy interventions.

Here are some of the available interventions:

Engagement in fine motor games
Participation in gross motor groups
One-on-one therapy sessions
Provision of aids and adaptation advice and education
Educational sessions on coping strategies and techniques

In summary, the equipment assessment aims to evaluate whether a condition significantly affects functioning at school and home, including its social implications. The therapist's role is to assess and provide detailed recommendations on the most appropriate equipment to enhance your child's independence. Additionally, the therapist is available to address any concerns you may have.

If you're interested in scheduling an Equipment assessment or discussing any concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.