Mobility support refers to a range of services, strategies and equipment designed to help older adults move safely and confidently within their home and community. 

As part of the Support at Home program, mobility support often includes assessments and recommendations from allied health professionals such as Occupational Therapists, who can identify risks and create practical solutions tailored to each person’s needs. 

Signs Mobility Support Might Be Needed 

Mobility challenges often develop gradually, which can make them easy to overlook until a fall or a close call brings them into focus. Some common signs worth paying attention to include: 

• Holding onto furniture or walls while moving around the house 

• Avoiding stairs, the shower, or getting in and out of bed unassisted 

• A recent fall, near-fall, or a growing fear of falling 

• Reduced confidence going out, attending appointments, or seeing friends 

• Noticeable changes in balance, posture, or walking speed 

• Skipping activities that used to be part of a regular routine 

None of these signs mean independence is over. Often, they simply mean it’s time for the right support to be put in place, before a more serious incident forces the issue. 

How Occupational Therapy Supports Mobility 

Occupational Therapists play an important role in helping older people maintain their independence and reduce the risk of falls. 

They can assist with: 

• Home safety assessments and fall prevention strategies 

• Identifying and reducing trip hazards around the home 

• Recommendations for mobility aids and assistive equipment 

• Installation of grab rails, hand supports, and other safety modifications 

• Education and training on safe movement techniques for everyday activities 

A home safety assessment typically involves an Occupational Therapist walking through the home with you, looking closely at things many people don’t think to question – doorway widths, step heights, lighting in hallways and bathrooms, rug placement, and how furniture is arranged around common walking paths. From there, recommendations might range from something as simple as repositioning a rug, through to installing a grab rail, or trialling equipment like a four-wheel walker, a raised toilet seat, or a shower chair. 

These interventions can make a significant difference in helping older Australians remain safe and comfortable in their own homes. At Chris Barnard Health, every Occupational Therapy recommendation feeds directly into a fully personalised Care Plan – nothing is one-size-fits-all, because the right mobility solution for one person can look completely different for another, even with a similar diagnosis. 

Common Conditions that Affect Mobility 

Mobility challenges show up differently depending on what’s driving them. A few conditions we regularly support people through include: 

• Arthritis, where joint pain and stiffness can make everyday movement uncomfortable 

• Parkinson’s disease, which can affect balance, coordination, and confidence in movement 

• Stroke recovery, where regaining strength and coordination often takes structured, ongoing support 

• General frailty or deconditioning, often following a hospital stay, illness, or extended period of inactivity 

• Vision changes, which can affect confidence navigating steps, uneven surfaces, or low light 

Because the right support looks different for each of these, an individual assessment matters far more than a generic equipment list. 

Is Mobility Support Covered by Support at Home? 

Occupational Therapy assessments and clinical recommendations fall under Allied Health, which sits within the Clinical Supports category of Support at Home – fully government-funded, with no co-contribution required. Equipment and home modifications, such as grab rails or larger changes to a bathroom, may be funded through your regular Support at Home budget or, for larger items, through the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme. 

Because funding categories and contribution rates can vary based on your specific classification and circumstances, it’s worth discussing your situation directly with your Care Partner, who can map out exactly what’s covered and what, if anything, you may need to contribute. 

The Benefits of Mobility Support at Home 

The right mobility support can help older adults: 

• Reduce the risk of falls and injuries 

• Maintain independence for longer 

• Improve confidence when moving around the home 

• Continue participating in daily activities 

• Enhance overall wellbeing and quality of life 

• Stay connected with family, friends, and the community 

How to Access Mobility Support Through Chris Barnard Health 

Getting started is straightforward. If you’re an existing client, your Care Partner can arrange an Occupational Therapy assessment as part of your current Care Plan. If you’re new to Chris Barnard Health, our team can guide you through requesting an assessment as part of setting up your Support at Home services or arrange a privately funded assessment if you’re not yet receiving government funding. 

From there, an Occupational Therapist visits the home, discusses your goals and concerns, and puts together practical, tailored recommendations – whether that’s a piece of equipment, a home modification, or simply some guidance on safer movement for specific daily tasks. 

Supporting Independent Living 

At Chris Barnard Health, our focus goes beyond safety. We work alongside older Australians to support independent living, helping them remain comfortable, confident, and in control of their daily lives. 

Whether it’s arranging an Occupational Therapy assessment, recommending home modifications, or developing a personalised care plan, we’re here to help you navigate your aged care journey with confidence. Mobility needs also tend to shift over time, which is why we take a hands-on, attentive approach rather than a “set and forget” service – checking in regularly to make sure your supports keep pace with any changes, rather than waiting for a crisis to prompt a review. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do I need a diagnosis to access mobility support? 
No. Mobility support can be arranged based on assessed need, whether that’s due to a specific condition, general frailty, or simply a decline in confidence moving around the home. 

Will I need to pay for an Occupational Therapy assessment? 
No. Occupational Therapy assessments fall under Clinical Supports, which are fully government-funded with no co-contribution. Equipment and larger home modifications may involve a contribution depending on your funding and circumstances, so it’s worth confirming specifics with your Care Partner. 

How long does it take to get an assessment? 
Timeframes vary depending on urgency and current demand, but our team prioritises requests where there’s been a recent fall or a hospital discharge involved. 

Can mobility support change over time? 
Yes. As needs change, your Care Partner and Occupational Therapist can review and adjust your supports, whether that means introducing new equipment, additional home modifications, or a different type of assistance altogether. 

Need Support with Mobility at Home? 

If you or a loved one are experiencing mobility challenges, our team can help identify the right supports to improve safety, independence, and quality of life. 

Contact Chris Barnard Health today to learn how our allied health and home care services can support you to live well at home.