Published: Wednesday 8 October 2025
Capability framework for Occupational Therapists Working with Older People (Aged Care)
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.
Related Tags
Related topics
5 March 2025
Appeals Process - OTA WFOT Program Approval Committee
Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) has a process to manage the review of a decision when an education program is not recommended for WFOT approval status.
21 November 2024
Evidence-Based Practice Position Statement | January 2019
Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a key element of best practice in occupational therapy. This position paper covers what evidence based practice is, the rationale for using EBP, the different contexts for use and the responsibilities of occupational therapists, employers, and the wider profession for the use of, and contribution to, EBP.
12 February 2025
Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists Working with People with Pain
Occupational Therapists are uniquely placed to support clients who are experiencing acute or persistent pain by applying a holistic approach to assessment and therapeutic interventions that are focused on enhancing engagement and participation in meaningful occupation. Occupational therapists play a key role in multidisciplinary teams working in pain management across a range of settings from inpatient and sub-acute settings to specialist pain clinics, community rehabilitation centres, return to work programs, aged care settings and private practice, bringing an understanding of the physical, psychological, environmental and societal factors that influence a person’s experience of pain.
