OT for adults

OT for Adults: Reclaiming Daily Life

Can occupational therapy help adults build more independence and routine?
Yes! Occupational therapy for adults focuses on practical, personalised support that helps people improve their daily life skills, manage physical or mental health challenges, and live with greater independence at home and in the community.

While many people associate OT with children, OT for adults is just as vital. It supports those living with disability, recovering from injury, or navigating life changes like a new diagnosis or mental health condition. Whether the goal is cooking independently, getting back to work, or managing fatigue, occupational therapy provides practical strategies to support everyday function and wellbeing.

What Does OT for Adults Involve?

OT for adults is all about enabling people to do the things that matter to them, whether that’s shopping, showering, using public transport, or getting through the day without burnout. Occupational therapists take a holistic approach, working alongside each person to understand their goals, challenges, and environment.

At It’s More Than Therapy, OT services for adults include:

  • Individual therapy in the clinic or community
  • Functional capacity assessments to guide NDIS planning
  • Supported Independent Living (SIL) assessments
  • Assistive technology and equipment recommendations
  • Home modification prescriptions
  • Routine building and fatigue management support

Each therapy plan is tailored, recognising that everyone’s situation is unique. Some people want to return to work or study, others want to master household tasks or participate more confidently in their community.

Who Can Benefit from OT for Adults?

Many adults can benefit significantly from adult OT. For those navigating the NDIS system, functional capacity assessments are often the first step in identifying what support or funding may be helpful. OT can also work closely with support coordinators to ensure the person’s goals and needs are fully understood and addressed.

While this blog focuses on practical and physical aspects of daily living, it’s worth noting that occupational therapy also plays a vital role in supporting adult mental health, helping individuals manage stress, build coping strategies, and structure their day for improved wellbeing. If you’re interested in learning more about this side of OT, Scope Australia has a great overview of OT’s role in mental health.

How OT for Adults Supports Daily Living Skills

Developing and maintaining daily living skills support is often a core focus of adult OT. This can include:

  • Preparing meals
  • Managing personal hygiene and dressing
  • Cleaning and home organisation
  • Using public transport
  • Budgeting or time management
  • Coping with overstimulation or fatigue
  • Building a daily routine that supports wellbeing

Occupational therapists use evidence-based strategies and tools to help people build independence in a way that’s achievable and sustainable. At It’s More Than Therapy, therapists take a neuro-affirming approach, working with each person’s strengths rather than against their challenges.

They also support the use of assistive technology where appropriate from mobility aids to apps and kitchen tools, ensuring people have the right support to live with more ease and confidence.

Why Personalised OT Matters

Many adults living with disability or health conditions have spent years adapting to systems or environments that don’t suit them. A personalised OT approach flips that, by focusing on how the environment and tools can be adapted to suit the person, not the other way around.

At It’s More Than Therapy, this means:

  • Tailored goals developed in partnership with the client
  • Therapy delivered in-home, in the clinic, or in the community
  • A focus on what matters to the person — not just ticking boxes
  • Collaborative support that works alongside support workers and allied health teams

It’s More Than Therapy, It’s About Living Fully

Whether it’s finding a new rhythm after a health setback or building the confidence to take part in community life, OT for adults is about reclaiming your time, energy, and goals. It’s More Than Therapy supports adults at all stages of life, with services that are respectful, empowering and grounded in everyday realities. Their experienced team works with NDIS participants and private clients, offering practical, compassionate care that creates long-term change, not just short-term solutions.

Ready to Reclaim Your Daily Life?

If you or someone you support is ready to build more independence, improve daily living, or explore new routines and goals, occupational therapy might be the next step.

Contact us at It’s More Than Therapy today to learn more about how we can help you achieve meaningful, lasting change, in your own way, at your own pace.

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