Building Capacity at Home: The Vital Role of Occupational Therapy for Parents, Carers, and Support Workers
When we think about Occupational Therapy, it’s easy to picture therapists working one-on-one with a client. But what many people don’t realise is that a huge part of an OT’s role happens beyond direct therapy — in the spaces where people live, work, and connect. Occupational therapists work hand-in-hand with the broader support system, which often includes parents, carers, and support workers.
By building capacity in these crucial relationships, we’re not just helping individuals; we’re strengthening the entire network around them. This approach makes everyday life safer, more meaningful, and more empowering for everyone involved.
Table of Contents
Why Capacity Building Matters
Capacity building means giving people the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to support someone in a safe, effective, and respectful way. It’s not just about teaching a skill — it’s about creating shared understanding and practical insight so that support workers and family members can make decisions, adapt strategies, and problem-solve alongside the person they’re supporting.
Occupational therapists believe in empowering people to live as independently and meaningfully as possible. But independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means being supported in a way that preserves choice, dignity, and participation. The role of OT is to guide everyone involved so that independence is encouraged even when assistance is needed.
Understanding the Diagnosis: Laying the Groundwork for Empathy and Insight
One of the first steps an OT takes when working with a client is to ensure that everyone in their support network understands the diagnosis and how it impacts daily life. This isn’t about reading off clinical definitions — it’s about breaking things down in simple terms. What does cerebral palsy look like in the morning routine? How does autism impact transitions from home to school? What challenges does a stroke survivor face when trying to prepare lunch or shower safely?
By explaining the “why” behind behaviours, preferences, and physical or emotional needs, we help carers and support workers build empathy. They start to notice patterns and can respond with patience, confidence, and calm. A better understanding of the diagnosis lays the foundation for better support.
Safety in the Home and Community: Proactive, Not Reactive
Home is where most people spend the majority of their time, and it’s also where most support takes place. That means it’s vital to consider safety — not only for the individual with a disability or health condition, but also for the carers providing daily assistance.
OTs conduct home assessments to identify any risks, such as tripping hazards, poor lighting, inaccessible bathrooms, or unsafe manual handling practices. We offer practical solutions, such as recommending grab rails, shower chairs, non-slip mats, or even larger modifications like ramps or hoists. But the true value comes in teaching carers how to use these safely and confidently.
Manual handling training is another key area. We help carers and support workers learn proper lifting, positioning, and mobility assistance techniques. This protects both the client and the carer from injury, and it ensures dignity and comfort are maintained in all physical interactions.
In the community, we also support strategies for safe transport, navigating public spaces, and participating in social activities while managing energy, behaviour, and mobility needs. Capacity building here ensures that outings are not overwhelming, but empowering.
Daily Routines and Occupation: The Heart of Everyday Living
Daily living isn’t just about ticking off tasks — it’s where people experience connection, accomplishment, and identity. Whether it’s brushing teeth, making lunch, or playing a game, these moments build confidence and purpose.
OTs work with families and support workers to identify daily routines and look at how they can be improved. Maybe that means using visual schedules for children who struggle with transitions. Maybe it’s finding adaptive utensils for someone with poor grip strength. Or perhaps it’s pacing activities to reduce fatigue.
We also help set routines that provide structure but allow for flexibility. When everyone knows what to expect — and has the tools to adapt when needed — stress is reduced for both the client and the people supporting them.
Encouraging Communication: Ask Questions, Stay Curious
We often tell families and support workers: You are the eyes and ears of the therapy team. Your observations, questions, and insights are invaluable. If something isn’t working, say so. If something is going great, share that too.
Occupational therapists encourage a culture of openness. We’re here to collaborate, not to instruct. We welcome your questions and ideas, and we want to hear what works best for you and your loved one. We also encourage you to ask other health professionals — physios, speech therapists, psychologists, nurses — so that support is consistent and aligned.
In turn, we’re happy to share strategies across teams and communicate regularly so everyone feels supported and informed.
Planning for the Long Term: Fostering Independence When We’re Not There
Therapists can’t be present all the time. So, our goal is always to leave people with tools, strategies, and confidence to make decisions when we’re not around. That’s where capacity building shines.
We teach carers how to adapt activities as a child grows, or how to increase a person’s involvement in their own care over time. We help build routines that don’t rely on us, but that can still grow and change as the person’s needs evolve.
When everyone has a shared understanding, and when capacity is built into the everyday, people thrive — not because the therapist was there, but because the support system is strong, informed, and empowered.
Occupational Therapy as Advocacy
Sometimes, occupational therapists help families and support workers navigate systems like the NDIS. We provide reports, recommend equipment, and highlight the importance of ongoing therapy in plans. We make sure your voice is heard, and that support is targeted and meaningful.
Whether it’s helping you find a support worker who understands sensory needs, advocating for a wheelchair upgrade, or making a case for respite care — we are in your corner.
Final Thoughts: Supporting the Supporters
Occupational therapy is about people. And people don’t exist in isolation. When we invest in supporting the people who support others — parents, carers, support workers — we’re building a stronger, more sustainable model of care.
We believe that every person deserves to live a life of purpose, connection, and dignity. And we believe that the best way to make that happen is through relationships, education, and collaboration.
So, keep asking questions. Stay curious. Share what you know. And know that your OT is here — not just for the client, but for you, too.
If you’d like to know more about how an OT can help your family or support team, reach out. We’re here to help you build a foundation for lifelong growth, safety, and success.
Transform Life is a NDIS registered organisation that provide support for you and your family.
Book your consult with an experienced Therapist at Transform Life to explore how OT, PBS and Speech Therapy can support you and your family.
