Home from Hospital: How an Occupational Therapist Makes Discharge Safer

Going home after a hospital stay is something most people look forward to. But home can feel very different after an illness, surgery or fall. Steps that were easy before may now feel risky, the shower might be hard to get in and out of, and everyday routines can suddenly take a lot more energy.

The first few weeks after discharge are often when people are most vulnerable. This is where an Occupational Therapist (OT) can make a real difference, helping people settle back in safely, confidently and as independently as possible.

Why the First Weeks at Home Matter

After time in hospital, many people return home with:

• Reduced strength, balance or endurance
• New mobility aids they are still getting used to
• Pain, fatigue or changes in thinking and memory
• Restrictions after surgery, such as hip or knee precautions
• Family members or carers taking on new caring roles

Combined with a home that hasn't changed, these can increase the risk of falls, difficulty managing daily tasks and, in some cases, a return to hospital.

How an Occupational Therapist Helps

An OT looks at the whole picture: the person, their home, their daily routine and the people who support them. Every visit is different, but support often includes:

Home Safety Assessment

We visit the home and look at how the person moves around it, including entrances, steps, the bathroom, toilet, bedroom and kitchen. We identify hazards and practical changes that reduce falls risk.

Equipment and Assistive Technology

Items such as shower chairs, toilet surrounds, bed rails, mobility aids, recliner chairs or transfer aids can make everyday tasks safer. An OT makes sure equipment fits the person and their home, then shows them and their carers how to use it safely.

Minor Home Modifications

Grab rails, handheld showers, ramps or small changes to steps can make a big difference. Where needed, an OT provides recommendations and supporting documentation for funding.

Getting Back to Daily Routines

We work on the tasks that matter most, such as showering, dressing, preparing a simple meal or getting out into the community, using strategies that build confidence and independence over time.

Supporting Carers and Families

Family members often become carers overnight. An OT can show safe ways to help with transfers and daily tasks, and help plan support that is sustainable for everyone.

Signs Someone May Need OT Support After Hospital

• They had a fall, or a near fall, before or during their hospital stay
• They are using a new walking aid or wheelchair
• They are finding it hard to shower, dress or use the toilet
• They feel unsteady or anxious moving around at home
• They live alone, or their carer is worried about how they will manage
• They have had a joint replacement, stroke or other major health event

Timing Matters

The best time to involve an OT is as early as possible, ideally soon after discharge or even before the person comes home. Early support means equipment and simple changes can be in place when they are needed most.

Funding Options

Forbes Care Occupational Therapists support people coming home from hospital through:

• Support at Home: OT can be included in a person's ongoing services. Short-term options, such as the Restorative Care Pathway, may also be available following an aged care assessment.
• DVA: Eligible veterans can access OT with a referral from their GP.
• NDIS: Participants can use their plan funding for OT support.
• Private: Anyone can access OT privately.

Where equipment or home modifications are needed, our OTs can provide prescriptions, recommendations and documentation to support funding requests.

Supporting Safe Discharge Across South East Queensland

Forbes Care Occupational Therapists visit clients in their homes across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland, Gympie, Moreton Bay (including Caboolture and Bribie Island) and North Brisbane, and surrounding areas.

We work closely with GPs, Support at Home providers, hospital discharge teams and families to help people return home safely and stay there.

If you are a care partner, GP or family member supporting someone home from hospital, you can make a referral online or call our team on (07) 5220 8909.