The first heatwave of the season has a habit of exposing small gaps that were easy to overlook during the cooler months. The air conditioner may not have been used since last summer. The client may no longer be able to read the buttons on the remote. Their medicines, mobility or support arrangements may have … read more
Assistive technology assessments can easily become product comparisons. How long does the battery last? Is the device waterproof? Does it have automatic detection, voice control or location tracking? Can family members access it remotely? These questions matter, but they do not tell an occupational therapist whether the client will actually use the product. A device … read more
After a fall or near fall, an older adult may become more careful. They might use the handrail, slow down on uneven ground or ask someone to accompany them on unfamiliar routes. A certain amount of caution can be helpful. It becomes a concern when fear begins deciding where the person goes, how much they … read more
You notice that your parent has become less steady on the stairs. They have missed a few doses of medication, left the stove on or stopped driving at night because their vision is not as clear as it once was. You want to help, but every attempt to discuss safety ends the same way: “I’m … read more
The most advanced assistive technology is not always the most useful. A device may look ideal during a demonstration yet remain untouched once it reaches the client’s home. It may require too many steps, feel uncomfortable, interrupt an established routine or solve a problem the client does not consider important. For occupational therapists, choosing assistive … read more
The arrival of spring often brings a welcome change. The days become longer, the weather begins to warm and gardens, walking tracks and community spaces feel inviting again. For older Australians who have spent more time indoors during winter, spring can provide the motivation to return to walking, gardening, shopping, social outings and other outdoor … read more
Assistive technology is often compared by looking at features. Does the device have GPS? Automatic fall detection? Voice activation? Remote monitoring? A mobile app? Medication reminders? Multiple contact options? These features may all have value. However, a long list of capabilities does not necessarily make a product more suitable for the person who will use … read more
One of the most important observations Occupational Therapists make is that confidence and physical ability don’t always decline at the same pace. In many cases, confidence begins to fade long before a person’s actual physical capabilities change. An older adult may still have the strength to prepare meals, walk around the neighbourhood, or do the … read more
Spring is a natural time to open the windows, clear out clutter and catch up on jobs that may have been put off during winter. It is also a good opportunity to look around the home for small safety problems that have gradually become part of the surroundings. A loose mat, dim hallway or uneven … read more
Australia’s Support at Home program was introduced to help older people receive the services, equipment and home modifications they need to remain safe and independent at home. However, misunderstandings about how the funding works can lead to unnecessary delays. A client may be told to wait while money accumulates, an equipment request may be postponed … read more
For many older adults, home is much more than a place to live. It’s where memories have been made, routines have been established, neighbours have become friends, and a sense of independence has been built over decades. It’s no surprise that most older Australians want to remain in their own homes for as long as … read more
A fall can leave more than bruises or broken bones. For many older adults, the emotional impact lasts much longer than the physical injuries. Even after the body has healed, confidence often doesn’t return as quickly. Everyday activities that once felt routine—walking to the mailbox, shopping for groceries, or taking a stroll through the neighbourhood—can … read more