AusRehab

ADL Assessment Explained: How Activities of Daily Living Help Your Recovery

Discover how an ADL assessment supports your recovery and helps you regain independence after an injury. Learn what happens during the process, why it matters, and how AusRehab’s occupational therapists guide you every step of the way.

Key Takeaways from the Video

Timestamp

Key Moment

Description

0:00

Introduction

Overview of ADL assessments and their role in rehabilitation.

0:15

Purpose of ADL Assessments

Explains how ADL evaluations promote recovery and independent living.

0:45

What to Expect

Step-by-step guide on what happens during an ADL assessment.

1:10

Benefits

Outlines how ADL assessments support recovery and confidence.

1:40

AusRehab’s Role

Highlights how AusRehab’s occupational therapists conduct ADL evaluations and support client goals.

What Is an ADL Assessment?

An Activities of Daily Living Assessment (ADL Assessment) evaluates how well you can manage essential daily tasks following an injury or illness. It’s a key part of rehabilitation, helping you identify the support or adjustments you may need to live independently and safely.

There are two main types of activities assessed:

  • Basic ADLs – Personal self-care activities such as washing, grooming, dressing, and moving around.
  • Instrumental ADLs – Broader daily activities like cooking, cleaning, shopping, and managing work or finances.

Each ADL assessment is conducted by a qualified occupational therapist who observes your performance, identifies challenges, and recommends ways to make your day-to-day life safer and easier.

Benefits of an ADL Assessment for Recovery

An ADL assessment offers clear insights into how your condition affects your ability to live independently and productively. It provides the foundation for a structured and realistic rehabilitation plan.

Key benefits include:

  • Better understanding of your current functional abilities and limitations.
  • Tailored rehabilitation and therapy programs to support recovery goals.
  • Improved independence, safety, and confidence in daily activities.
  • Clear communication with doctors, insurers, and employers for coordinated care.
  • Support for return-to-work planning and insurance claims.

AusRehab’s ADL assessments in NSW are evidence-based, recovery-oriented, and fully compliant with SIRA guidelines to ensure professional and reliable results.

What Happens During an ADL Assessment?

The ADL evaluation process involves several key stages designed to give a clear picture of your daily living capabilities.

Here’s what typically happens:

Initial Consultation

Your occupational therapist reviews your medical background, injury details, and current routines.

Task Observation

You’ll be observed performing daily tasks such as getting dressed, cooking, or moving around your environment.

Functional Scoring

The therapist assesses your level of independence, effort, and safety while completing each activity.

Comprehensive Report

 You’ll receive a detailed report outlining your abilities, limitations, and professional recommendations for rehabilitation or workplace adjustments.

This assessment identifies physical or cognitive barriers, supports home or workplace modifications, and informs return-to-work or insurance decisions.

We're always ready to answer your questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ADL assessment, and why is it important?

An ADL Assessment is a professional evaluation of your ability to perform everyday tasks after an injury or illness. The results guide your rehabilitation and help ensure you get the right level of support.

Who performs an ADL assessment?

A qualified occupational therapist carries out the assessment, observing your functional performance and providing expert recommendations.

What does an ADL assessment include?

An ADL Assessment includes a discussion of your background, task observations, scoring of independence, and a detailed report with rehabilitation recommendations.

How long does an ADL assessment take?

Most assessments take 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of your condition and the number of activities evaluated.

How can an ADL assessment help my recovery?

An ADL Assessment pinpoints functional barriers and helps create a personalised plan to improve your safety, mobility, and independence.

What’s the difference between an ADL assessment and a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

An ADL assessment focuses on daily living tasks, while a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) measures your ability to perform work-related activities. Both assessments complement each other in recovery and return-to-work planning.

Is AusRehab a SIRA-approved provider for ADL assessments?

Yes. AusRehab is a SIRA-approved provider in NSW, ensuring all assessments meet the required standards for workers’ compensation and insurance claims.

Can I book an ADL assessment directly with AusRehab?

Absolutely. You can contact AusRehab directly to book your independent living assessment or return-to-work ADL evaluation today.

Speak to an expert

Book Your ADL Assessment in NSW Today

If you’re recovering from an injury or illness, an ADL assessment can help you understand your capabilities and plan your next steps.

AusRehab’s experienced occupational therapists provide detailed, SIRA-compliant assessments that help you achieve independence and return to work safely.

Connect with us today and access professional support tailored to your recovery needs.