Published: Wednesday 8 October 2025
The Capability Framework for occupational therapists working with older people (aged care) proposes a series of capabilities (knowledge, skills and attitudes) for occupational therapists practising across different aged care settings and support structures. The framework acknowledges that aged care is a complex and multifaceted area of clinical practice and is within the scope of all registered occupational therapists.
The framework aims to:
- facilitate occupational therapists’ self-reflection and decision making regarding their practice
- help clinicians identify areas they may need to build their knowledge or skills relevant to their service setting or area of practice
- demonstrate the clinical practice expectations of occupational therapists at different career stages
- support advocacy of the role and function of aged care occupational therapy to government, funding bodies, employers, managers and other key stakeholders
This framework does not intend to:
- be prescriptive or restrictive
- expect clinicians working in aged care to meet all capabilities listed - capabilities need to be applied to their specific setting/context
- expect clinicians to operate at the same proficiency level across all capabilities
Download the framework below.
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