Functional Capacity Assessment

Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a detailed evaluation designed to determine a participant’s ability to perform everyday tasks and establish the level of support required to live safely and independently. Conducted by qualified allied health professionals such as Occupational Therapists—and sometimes speech pathologists, psychologists, or physiotherapists—it aims to guide personalised NDIS plan development.

Key areas assessed include:

• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
  Evaluates personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, feeding, and mobility.
• Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)
  Focuses on more complex skills, like cooking, shopping, managing finances, and using transport.
• Mobility
  Assesses movement around home and community—walking, transferring, stair navigation, and transport usage.
• Cognitive Function
  Reviews memory, problem-solving, attention, learning, and decision-making abilities.
• Communication
  Examines how individuals express themselves and understand others, whether verbally or via assistive communication methods.
• Social Interaction & Participation
  Assesses the ability to interact with others, make friends, handle emotions, and engage in community or recreational activities.
• Self-Management / Self-Responsibility
  Evaluates planning, organization, problem-solving, time and money management, and daily self-care routines.
• Environmental Assessment and Assistive Technology Needs
  Considers how the home/community environment impacts function and recommends equipment or home modifications, such as mobility aids or adaptive equipment.