Activities of daily living (ADL)

Activities of daily living assessment reviews the impact the workplace injury has on the worker's everyday tasks such as personal care, household chores, leisure activities and supporting their recovery.

On this page

What is an activities of daily living (ADL) assessment?

What is an ADL assessment likely to involve?

When is an ADL assessment needed?

What happens after an ADL assessment is completed?

Entitlements for ADL

What is an activities of daily living (ADL) assessment?

An ADL (activities of daily living) assessment evaluates independence level in relation to personal care, daily and social activities.

An ADL assessment is used to ensure the individual can complete everyday tasks safely and independently, or to identify if equipment or services are required to assist them while they recover from their injury.

The assessment will be completed by a qualified occupational therapist (OT) who will go to their home to complete the review.

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What is an ADL assessment likely to involve?

  • A review of the worker's current ability to complete daily tasks such as household chores, personal care and leisure activities
  • A review to see whether domestic assistance is required
  • The development of a plan to transition the individual to being independent.

The report's recommendations will be based on the physical demonstration of the relevant tasks/activities during the assessment.

It's important to note, the report does not include treatment recommendations.


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When is an ADL assessment needed?

If your worker has suffered a significant workplace injury and they:

  • are struggling to complete day-to-day tasks independently
  • are concerned about the risks of their everyday activities exacerbating their injury
  • have recently been discharged from an inpatient stay
  • are concerned about post-operative support in their home environment. 

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What happens after an ADL assessment is completed?

The occupational therapist will develop a report which outlines your worker's holistic recovery goals and any injury restrictions impacting their independence in daily life. The report may contain recommendations for support, equipment, modifications, and services.

The Claims Service Provider (CSP) must review and make a decision regarding the liability for ADL requirements within 21 days done.

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Entitlements for ADL

Your worker may be entitled to up to six hours per week for three months maximum (please note, if their injury has resulted in a permanent impairment of at least 15 per cent, the above guidelines do not apply). 

The assistance provided is a temporary measure to assist the individual whilst they focus on recovery and treatment.


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