OT Trial

Why OT Assessments Are Essential for Mobility Aids

Choosing the right mobility aid is more than just picking something that looks good on paper— it’s about finding a solution that truly fits your life, your home, and your unique needs.

That’s where an Occupational Therapy (OT) assessment for mobility aids comes in. An OT home visit allows you to try products like mobility scooters and power wheelchairs right where you live, making sure every turn, doorway, and daily routine works seamlessly for you. For products such as the Powered Bed, where In-Home trials are not possible, you can try them at our Showroom in Epping, Melbourne.

At CARE WITH US, we believe an OT assessment should feel less like a formal evaluation and more like a caring conversation. We want you to feel comfortable, supported, and confident that the recommendations made are right for you— not just today, but for the years ahead.

What Happens During an In-Home OT Trial?

An in-home OT trial is precisely what it sounds like: your occupational therapist comes to your home to see how different mobility aids work in your real environment.

Here’s what usually happens:

• Warm Welcome & Discussion: Your OT will ask about your daily routines, challenges, and goals.
• Hands-On Trial: When you choose our in-home trial, you get the chance to truly test how the equipment fits into your daily life. Here’s what you’ll experience:
• Seating Comfort: Does the seat and backrest feel right for extended use?
• Simple Operation: Is the mobility aid intuitive and easy to control?
• Energy Efficiency: Does using it feel effortless, or does it tire you out?
• Indoor Mobility: Does it work well inside your house without bumping into furniture?
• Doorway Clearance: Can you easily pass through all your doorways, including the bathroom?
• Room Access: Are you able to reach every room you need, including bedrooms and bathrooms?
• Easy Transfers: Can you smoothly move from the mobility aid to your bed, sofa, dining chair, or car seat?
• Kitchen Access: Are you able to reach counters, open the refrigerator, and access cabinets?
• Bathroom Independence: Can you safely and comfortably use bathroom facilities?
• Hallway Navigation: Is there enough space to turn around (360 degrees) and move freely?
• Car Compatibility: Can you get in and out of your vehicle with ease?
• Transport Convenience: Is the mobility aid simple to lift, fold, and store in your car?
• Garden Access: Are you able to enjoy your outdoor spaces and garden areas?
• Surface Versatility: Does it handle different terrains like grass, gravel, tiles, ramps, and uneven surfaces?
• Control Comfort: If it has a joystick or controls, are they positioned well for your hands?
• Storage Solutions: Does it have convenient storage for personal items, bags, or shopping?
• Battery Life: For powered equipment, does the battery last through your typical day?
• Weight Capacity: Does it safely support your weight with room to spare?
• Stability: Do you feel secure and balanced while using it?
• Maintenance: Are the cleaning and basic maintenance tasks manageable?
• Accessory Options: What additional features are available (cup holders, trays, safety flags, cane holder, dining table)?
• Confidence Building: Does using it make you feel more independent and self-assured?
• Safety Assurance: Do you feel completely safe while operating it?
• Family: Are your loved ones comfortable with lifting & transferring this equipment?
• Support Worker: Are your support workers comfortable with lifting & transferring this equipment?
• Adjustments on the Spot: The OT may suggest small tweaks, like adjusting seat height, changing armrest position, or recommending different controls — to improve your comfort and independence.
• Collaborative Feedback: You’ll share your thoughts and feelings about the equipment. This isn’t just about measurements; it’s about making sure the aid feels right for you.

Our home trial process at CARE WITH US is free, flexible, and designed around your needs so that you will never feel rushed or pressured.

How to Prepare Your Home and Yourself

Preparing for an OT visit doesn’t need to be stressful. A little preparation can help you get the most out of the trial:

For Your Home:

• Clear pathways so equipment can be tested safely.
• Have a few common-use areas ready to try, like your bathroom, bedroom, and outdoor spaces, car, and garden.
• If you live with others, let them know when the OT will visit so the home stays distraction-free.
• Invite a Support Worker or the primary carer during the trial, so that the OT can see if they can lift and transfer the chair easily.
• If you have a fur baby, make sure they are safely inside because they can get excited by a new visitors is here to play with them. We would love to give them attention after the trial.

For Yourself:

• Make a list of your daily challenges and what you would like to improve.
• Think about your future needs— not just what works today, but what might support you as your situation changes.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for easy movement.
• Try a mobility aid on different surfaces.

Remember: the OT visit is not a test you can “fail.” It’s a team effort to help you find a suitable Assistive Technology.

Questions You May Be Asked by the OT

Your OT may ask questions to better understand your needs. These can include:

• How do you usually move around your home?
• Do you experience pain, fatigue, or difficulty with specific tasks?
• What’s most important to you when choosing a mobility aid— comfort, portability, battery life, ease of use?
• Do you plan to use it indoors, outdoors, or both?
• Are there any upcoming life changes (like moving house) that might affect your needs?

Being open and honest will help your OT recommend the best solution for you.

Getting the Most from Your Trial with CARE WITH US

We want every trial to be empowering. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

• Ask questions: No question is too small or silly.
• Take your time: Drive around, turn, stop, and start until you feel confident.
• Try different options: You might be surprised which mobility aid feels the most comfortable.
• Listen to your instincts: If something feels “off,” say so.

At CARE WITH US, we’re here to support both you and your OT so the trial feels personal, practical, and pressure-free.

What Comes After the Assessment?

Once the trial is complete, your OT will prepare a recommendation report. If you’re an NDIS or Aged Care participant, this can also help with funding approval for your chosen mobility aid, following the NDIS guidelines for preparing assistive technology evidence.

From there, we’ll help you with:

• Choosing the right model and customisations.
• Organising delivery and setup.
• Offering ongoing support for servicing and adjustments.

Your journey doesn’t end after the assessment— we’re here to make sure your mobility aid continues to work for you long after it arrives.

Conclusion: Confidence Through Preparation

An OT assessment for mobility aids is more than just an appointment— it’s a step towards greater independence, safety, and freedom. With a little preparation, an open mind, and the right support, you can turn this experience into a positive and empowering milestone.

At CARE WITH US, we believe every person deserves a mobility solution that truly fits their life. We’re here to walk or roll alongside you every step of the way.

Key Takeaways:

• OT assessments ensure your mobility aid is safe and suitable for your lifestyle.
• In-home trials let you experience the equipment where you’ll actually use it.
• Preparation helps you communicate your needs clearly to your OT.
• CARE WITH US offers guidance, free trials, and ongoing support.

Ready to take the next step?

• Book your free home trial today
• Explore our mobility scooters and power wheelchairs
• Learn how CARE WITH US supports you and your OT at every stage of your journey