If you’re an NDIS participant, you may be asked to complete a functional capacity assessment with an occupational therapist. This can sound daunting, but it’s simply a way to understand how you manage everyday life – and what support could help.
Below, we explain what an OT looks for during a functional capacity assessment, why it matters and how it supports fair NDIS funding.
What is a functional capacity assessment?
A functional capacity assessment OT is an occupational therapy assessment for NDIS participants. It looks at how you manage daily activities, not just your diagnosis.
The goal is to understand:
- What you can do independently
- Where you need support
- What helps you live as safely and independently as possible
This information is then used to support your NDIS plan, funding and goals.
What does an occupational therapist assess?
During an OT functional assessment, the occupational therapist looks at how you manage real‑life tasks. This may include:
- Personal care – showering, dressing, toileting
- Daily living tasks – cooking, cleaning, shopping
- Mobility and safety – moving around your home and community
- Cognitive skills – memory, planning, attention and decision‑making
- Sensory and emotional regulation – managing stress, noise or fatigue
- Social and community participation – work, study or social activities
The focus is always on function, not testing or judgement.
How is the assessment done?
An occupational therapy assessment for NDIS may involve:
- A conversation about your daily life and challenges
- Observing how you complete certain tasks
- Asking questions about what’s hard, what helps and what goals you have
Assessments are usually done in your home or another comfortable environment, so the OT can see what support would work best in your real setting.
Why does this matter for NDIS funding?
The NDIS funds reasonable and necessary supports. A functional capacity assessment helps show:
- Why certain supports are needed
- How they relate to your disability
- How they improve your independence and safety
Clear OT reports help ensure funding decisions are fair, evidence‑based and aligned with your goals.
How LiveBig can help
LiveBig’s occupational therapists complete clear, respectful and practical functional capacity assessments that focus on what matters most to you.
We take the time to understand your daily life, explain the process in simple terms and provide reports that support meaningful NDIS outcomes.
If you’d like support with a functional capacity assessment OT, let’s do it together. Get in touch with us here.
