The degree to which a person with a disability can access a building, product, or service.
A
Aged Care Assessment Team
Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organizations
The Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) is a complex assessment tool used to determine the funding level for aged care residents based on their care needs and clinical complexity.
Aged Care Quality Standards
Active Range of Motion (AROM) is the range of movement that a person can achieve without assistance from another person or device. Physiotherapists and Osteopaths may use AROM testing to assess a person’s joint function and mobility.
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are the basic self-care tasks that individuals typically perform on a daily basis, such as dressing, bathing, and grooming. Occupational therapists work with individuals to improve their ability to perform ADLs independently.
Aged care Dementia supplement
Adverse drug event
Adverse drug reaction
Activities of Daily Living
The ACAT is a team of health professionals that assess the eligibility and level of care needed for older Australians to access government-subsidised aged care services.
The Aged Care Quality Standards are a set of standards developed by the Australian Government to ensure that all aged care services provide high-quality care to older Australians. The standards cover areas such as consumer dignity and choice, clinical care, and feedback and complaints.
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
Australian National Aged Care Classification
Australian National Aged Care Classification Residential Aged Care Facility
Aged Rights Advocacy Service
In osteopathy, articulation refers to the movement and function of joints. Osteopaths may use joint articulation techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
B
Balance training is a type of exercise that is designed to improve a person’s balance and reduce their risk of falls. Physiotherapists may use balance training as part of a falls prevention program for aged care residents.
An adjustable device made of metal and plastic components attached to one or both sides of an adult medical bed. Bed rails may be different lengths and heights and may be used with padding, mesh covers or inserts between the railings.
BPSD are a range of symptoms experienced by people with dementia, such as agitation, aggression, and wandering. Managing BPSD is an important part of providing quality care to people with dementia.
Biomechanics is the study of the mechanics of the human body, particularly how forces and movements affect the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths use their knowledge of biomechanics to assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement used to determine whether a person’s weight is healthy for their height. BMI is commonly used in aged care settings to assess residents’ nutritional status and risk of malnutrition.
Body mechanics refers to the way in which individuals move their bodies during functional activities. Occupational therapists may provide training on proper body mechanics to prevent injury and promote safe and efficient movement.
A tactile writing system used by people who are blind or visually impaired to read and write.
C
Community Aged Care Packages
A care plan is a document that outlines the care and support needs of a resident in residential aged care. It includes information about the resident’s health, preferences, and goals, and helps ensure that they receive the best possible care.
A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion experienced by caregivers who provide ongoing care for a loved one.
A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member, friend, or neighbor who has a disability, chronic illness, or is older and frail. Carers play an essential role in the aged care sector and are often supported by government programs such as respite care.
Consumer Directed Care (CDC) is an approach to aged care that gives residents more control and choice over the care they receive. Under CDC, residents are able to choose their own care providers and services, and have more say in the development of their care plan.
Commonwealth Home Support Program is designed to provide early support for seniors 65 years and over who require just a little help at home.
A text display of dialogue and other important audio information on a video, making it accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Care Management Arrangement
Cognitive rehabilitation is a type of therapy that focuses on improving cognitive function, such as memory and problem-solving, after a brain injury or neurological condition. Occupational therapists may provide cognitive rehabilitation to help individuals improve their ability to perform daily activities.
The CAPS is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to eligible Australians who have permanent and severe incontinence. The scheme covers the cost of continence products such as pads, catheters, and bed pads.
A contracture is a condition in which a muscle or joint becomes permanently shortened, limiting the range of motion. Contractures can occur in aged care residents who spend a lot of time in a seated or bedridden position, and may require physiotherapy intervention.
Care of the Older Person Education
Cranial osteopathy is a form of osteopathy that focuses on the cranial bones and their relationship to the rest of the body. Cranial osteopathy techniques are used to improve the function of the nervous system and reduce pain.
D
A form completed by a GP for eligible Veterans to access services funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs for recognised conditions.
Daily Accommodation Payment
Daily Accommodation Payment
Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service
Delirium is a common condition in aged care that is characterised by confusion, agitation, and disorientation. Delirium is often caused by a medical condition or medication, and can be difficult to manage in older people.
DCM is a tool used in aged care settings to assess the quality of care provided to people with dementia. It involves observing and recording the behaviors of people with dementia, and using this information to identify areas where care can be improved.
Department of Veterans Affairs
Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme
The diaphragm is a muscle that plays an important role in breathing. Osteopaths may use techniques to release tension in the diaphragm to improve breathing and reduce pain.
Refers to a physical or mental impairment that affects a person’s ability to perform daily activities. Allied Heath Therapists work with individuals with disabilities to promote their independence and improve their quality of life.
Professionals who specialise in assessing and improving the accessibility of buildings, products, and services.
Dry needling is a technique used by physiotherapists to relieve muscle pain and tension. The technique involves inserting fine needles into trigger points in the muscle, which can help to release tension and improve blood flow.
E
An Electronic Health Record (EHR) is a digital record of a person’s health information, including medical history, medications, and test results. EHRs are becoming increasingly common in aged care settings, and can improve the quality and coordination of care.
Elder abuse refers to any form of mistreatment, harm or neglect experienced by an older person, often by a caregiver or family member. This can include physical, emotional, or financial abuse, and is a serious issue in the aged care sector.
Electrical Stimulation (ES) is a technique used by physiotherapists to help improve muscle strength and reduce pain. ES involves applying a mild electrical current to the affected muscle or area, which can stimulate muscle contractions and promote healing.
Devices that enlarge text and images to make them easier to read for people with visual impairments.
Enhanced Primary Care
The Elderly Persons Mental Health Service (EPMHS) is a specialised mental health service for older people experiencing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or dementia. The service provides assessment, treatment, and support for older people and their families.
Ergonomics is the science of designing work environments to optimise human performance and reduce the risk of injury. Allied Heath Therapists may provide advice on ergonomics to help prevent and manage musculoskeletal injuries.
A term used to describe the network of family and friends who provide support and care to an individual, including those who may not be biologically related.
F
Falls are a common cause of injury and hospitalisation among older people. Falls prevention programs aim to reduce the risk of falls by identifying and addressing the factors that contribute to them.
An unpaid caregiver who provides care to a family member or loved one, often in their own home.
A type of connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. Allied Heath Therapists may use fascial techniques to release tension and improve mobility.
Fine motor skills are the ability to use the small muscles in the hands and fingers to perform precise movements, such as writing or buttoning a shirt. Allied Heath Therapists work with individuals to improve their fine motor skills.
Assistive listening devices that use a wireless microphone and receiver to transmit sound, helping people with hearing impairments to hear better.
Frailty is a condition that affects older people and is characterised by a decline in physical and cognitive function, reduced mobility, and an increased risk of adverse health outcomes such as falls and hospitalisation. Frailty is an important consideration in the provision of aged care services.
The Frailty Index is a tool used to measure the level of frailty in older people. The index considers factors such as mobility, cognition, and comorbidities, and can help aged care providers to identify residents who are at risk of adverse health outcomes.
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a type of assessment used by physiotherapists to evaluate a person’s ability to perform activities of daily living. FCAs may be used in aged care settings to identify areas where residents may require additional support or intervention.
G
Gait analysis is a technique used by physiotherapists to assess a person’s walking pattern and identify any issues with their mobility or balance. Gait analysis can be useful in aged care settings to help prevent falls and improve residents’ mobility.
A professional who helps families navigate the complex healthcare and social service systems and provides support and guidance to caregivers.
A geriatrician is a medical specialist who specialises in the care of older people. They are trained to manage the complex health needs of older patients, including multiple medical conditions and medication management.
Bars attached to walls that provide support and stability for people with mobility impairments, especially in bathrooms and other areas where slipping and falling is a concern.
Grading refers to the process of adjusting the difficulty of a task to match the individual’s ability level. Occupational therapists may use grading to challenge individuals and promote their progress in therapy.
Grey Nomads is a term used to describe older Australians who travel around the country in caravans or motorhomes. The grey nomad lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular among older Australians, and aged care providers are adapting to meet the unique needs of this group.
H
The Home and Community Care (HACC) program is a government-funded program that provides support services to older people living in the community. HACC services include things like home help, transport, and social support.
Hand therapy is a specialised type of occupational therapy that focuses on rehabilitating individuals with hand and upper extremity injuries. Hand therapists work with individuals to improve their hand function and reduce pain.
Devices that amplify sound to help people with hearing impairments hear better.
Home Care Packages are a government-subsidised program that provides older Australians with the support they need to live independently at home. This can include services such as personal care, domestic assistance, and transport.
Hospital in the Home
A trained professional who provides assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, to individuals in their own homes.
Home modifications are changes made to a person’s home to make it safer and more accessible, particularly for older people with mobility or disability issues. Common modifications include installing handrails and ramps, and adapting bathrooms and kitchens.
Homeostasis is the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.
Hydrotherapy is a type of exercise that is performed in a pool or other water environment. Hydrotherapy can be particularly beneficial for aged care residents with mobility or pain issues, as the buoyancy of the water can help to reduce pressure on the joints.
I
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living
Short-term care provided to a loved one by a professional caregiver to allow the primary caregiver to take a break.
Incontinence refers to the inability to control the bladder or bowels. It is a common problem among older people, particularly those in residential aged care, and can be managed with appropriate care and support.
Assistive listening systems that use a magnetic field to transmit sound directly to hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Informed consent is a legal and ethical principle that requires healthcare providers to obtain a patient’s consent before providing treatment or care. In aged care settings, informed consent is particularly important when it comes to things like medication, surgery, and end-of-life care.
Inhibition is a technique used by osteopaths to reduce tension and improve muscle function. The technique involves applying gentle pressure to the muscle or surrounding tissues to reduce activity.
Intergenerational programs bring together older and younger people in shared activities and programs. These programs can have benefits for both age groups, including improved social connection, increased understanding and respect, and improved mental health.
Intrinsic muscle strengthening is a type of therapy that focuses on strengthening the small muscles in the hands and fingers that are important for fine motor skills. Occupational therapists may use intrinsic muscle strengthening exercises to improve hand function.
Isometric exercise is a type of exercise that involves contracting a muscle without moving the joint. Isometric exercises can be used by physiotherapists to help improve muscle strength and reduce pain.
J
A popular screen reader software used by people who are blind or visually impaired to read text displayed on a computer screen.
An organisation that accredits and certifies healthcare organisations, including those providing home care services.
Joint mobility refers to the ability of joints to move freely and without pain. Maintaining joint mobility is important for older people, as it can reduce the risk of falls and improve overall mobility and quality of life.
Joint mobilisation is a manual therapy technique used by Allied Health Therapists to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. The technique involves applying gentle pressure to the affected joint, which can help to reduce stiffness and improve range of motion.
Justice is an important consideration in the aged care sector, particularly in relation to issues such as elder abuse and neglect. Aged care providers have a responsibility to ensure that older people are treated with dignity and respect, and that any breaches of their rights are addressed appropriately.
Joint protection refers to strategies used to prevent or reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. Occupational therapists may provide education on joint protection techniques to individuals with arthritis or other joint conditions.
Joint replacement surgery is a common procedure in older people, particularly those with osteoarthritis. Aged care providers may be involved in the care and rehabilitation of residents who have undergone joint replacement surgery.
K
A key worker is a designated person who works with a resident in aged care to develop and implement their care plan. The key worker is responsible for coordinating the resident’s care, liaising with other healthcare professionals, and ensuring that the resident’s needs and preferences are met.
Alternative keyboards that are designed for people with physical impairments, including larger keys, ergonomic designs, and alternate input methods.
Kinesiology tape is a type of elastic tape that is used by physiotherapists to support injured muscles or joints. The tape can help to reduce pain and inflammation, and may be used as part of a larger physiotherapy treatment plan.
Kyphosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve outward, resulting in a hunched posture. Kyphosis is more common in older people and can cause pain and mobility issues.
L
Printed materials with larger fonts, making them easier to read for people with visual impairments.
A legal arrangement in which a person is appointed to make decisions for an individual who is unable to make decisions for themselves.
Leisure participation refers to engaging in activities that are enjoyable and meaningful outside of work or other daily responsibilities. Occupational therapists may help individuals identify and participate in leisure activities that promote their well-being and quality of life.
Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a type of dementia that is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain. LBD is characterised by fluctuating cognitive function, visual hallucinations, and motor symptoms such as tremors.
A life story is a personal history of an individual’s life, including their experiences, relationships, and achievements. Capturing and sharing life stories is an important part of person-centered care, as it helps to build relationships and improve communication between carers and residents.
Ligamentous Articular Strain (LAS) is a technique used by osteopaths to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. The technique involves applying gentle pressure to the affected joint to release tension in the ligaments.
Living well with dementia is an approach to care that focuses on the strengths and abilities of people with dementia, rather than their deficits. It involves providing person-centered care, enabling social engagement, and promoting activities that support physical and mental wellbeing.
Lumbar traction is a type of physiotherapy treatment that involves stretching the spine using a traction device. Lumbar traction can help to reduce pressure on the discs in the spine and improve mobility and function.
M
Manual therapy is a type of Allied Health treatment that involves hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing. Manual therapy techniques may include massage, joint mobilisation, and stretching.
Any activity where you lower, push, pull, hold or restrain an item. Placing something on a shelf, painting, gardening, cleaning, writing and typing are all examples of manual handling. More people are injured by hazardous manual tasks than by any other workplace hazard.
Medicare Benefits Schedule
Mobility aids: These are devices used to assist individuals with mobility impairments to move around and carry out daily activities. Examples of mobility aids include canes, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs.
Electric wheelchairs: These are motorized wheelchairs that can be controlled by a joystick or other device. They are often used by individuals with limited upper body strength or mobility.
Mobility scooters: These are motorized scooters that are designed for individuals with limited mobility. They are often used for outdoor activities and have a range of features, including adjustable seats, baskets, and headlights.
Stairlifts: These are motorized devices used to transport individuals up and down stairs. They can be installed in homes and other buildings and are often used by individuals with mobility impairments who have difficulty navigating stairs.
Platform lifts: These are motorized lifts used to transport individuals and mobility aids vertically. They can be installed in homes, public buildings, and other areas and are often used to provide access to upper floors or stages.
Transfer aids: These are devices used to assist individuals with mobility impairments to transfer from one location to another. Examples of transfer aids include transfer boards, gait belts, and slide sheets.
Walking frames: These are mobility aids that provide additional support for individuals who are able to walk but have difficulty maintaining balance or stability. They often have wheels and can be adjusted to accommodate different heights and weights.
Crutches: These are mobility aids used to support individuals with injuries or disabilities that affect their ability to walk. They are often used temporarily and can be adjusted to fit the individual’s height and weight.
Hoists: These are motorized devices used to lift individuals with mobility impairments into and out of beds, chairs, and other locations. They can be installed in homes, hospitals, and other settings.
Ramps: These are sloped surfaces used to provide access to buildings and other areas for individuals with mobility impairments. They can be permanent or portable and are often used in public buildings, homes, and other areas.”
Modified equipment refers to devices or tools that have been adapted to meet the specific needs of an individual with a disability. Allied Health Therapists may recommend and assist with the use of modified equipment to promote independence and safety.
A multidisciplinary team is a group of healthcare professionals with different areas of expertise who work together to provide care to a resident in aged care. The team may include doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and support staff, and works collaboratively to meet the resident’s needs.
My Aged Care is a government-funded website and contact center that provides information and access to aged care services for older Australians. It is the first point of contact for people seeking information about aged care services.
Myofascial release is a technique used by Allied Health Therapists to release tension in the fascia and muscles. The technique involves applying sustained pressure to the affected area to improve mobility and reduce pain.
N
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program that provides support and services to people with a disability. It aims to improve the lives of people with a disability by providing funding for services such as housing, transport, and personal care.
Neurological rehabilitation is a type of therapy that focuses on rehabilitating individuals with neurological conditions, such as stroke or traumatic brain injury. Occupational therapists may provide neurological rehabilitation to help individuals improve their ability to perform daily activities.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is a type of electrical stimulation that is used by physiotherapists to improve muscle strength and function. NMES can be particularly beneficial for aged care residents who have difficulty
Neuromuscular technique is a technique used by osteopaths to release tension in the muscles and improve function. The technique involves applying pressure to trigger points in the muscles to release tension and reduce pain.
Policies that aim to reduce the risk of injury to caregivers and individuals receiving care by eliminating the need for manual lifting and transferring of individuals.
Flooring designed to prevent slipping and falling, providing greater safety for people with mobility impairments.
The practice of providing care and support to an older person in their own home to prevent the need for institutionalisation in a nursing home.
O
An occupational therapist is a healthcare professional who specialises in helping people to perform daily activities and tasks. They work with older people to help them maintain their independence and quality of life.
Software that converts printed text into digital text, making it accessible to people with visual impairments.
Orthopedics is the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention and correction of musculoskeletal conditions. Osteopaths work closely with orthopedic specialists to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
Orthotics are devices, such as braces or splints, that are used to support or protect a part of the body. Occupational therapists may recommend and assist with the use of orthotics to promote function and prevent injury.
An osteopath is a healthcare professional who specializes in the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, muscles, and connective tissues of the body.
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle.
P
Pain management refers to strategies used to reduce or manage pain. Allied Health Therapists may provide education on pain management techniques and assist individuals in developing a pain management plan.
A specialised type of care that focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, including pain management and emotional support.
Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record
A physiotherapist, also known as a physical therapist, is a healthcare professional who specializes in helping people of all ages overcome physical limitations due to injury, illness, or disability. They work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans to help them restore movement, reduce pain, and improve their overall physical function and quality of life.
Postural assessment is a technique used by Allied Health practitioners to assess a person’s posture and identify any issues with alignment that may be contributing to musculoskeletal conditions.
Automatic door openers that make it easier for people with mobility impairments to enter and exit buildings.
Q
Quadripod grasp is a fine motor skill that involves holding a writing utensil with all four fingers (index, middle, ring, and pinky) while the thumb opposes the fingers on the other side of the utensil. Occupational therapists may work with individuals who have difficulty with quadripod grasp to improve their writing abilities. They may use various activities and exercises to help strengthen the muscles in the hand and fingers and improve dexterity and coordination.
A measure of an individual’s overall well-being and satisfaction with their life circumstances.
Rooms designed to provide a quiet and calming environment for people with sensory sensitivities or mental health conditions.
R
Refundable Accommodation Deposit
Tactile lettering and symbols that provide guidance and information for people with visual impairments.
Regional Assessment Service
Short-term care provided to a loved one to allow the primary caregiver to take a break or attend to other responsibilities.
Residential User Contribution
S
Sector Development Committee
Trained professionals who interpret spoken language into sign language for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
A healthcare professional who helps individuals and families navigate the healthcare system and access resources and support.
The Sunbeam Program is a falls prevention program that involves small group therapy. It was initially developed to help those who were at most risk of physical deconditioning and falls during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. As facilities continue to manage the impact of COVID-19 on their Consumers, this program has been extended into 2023 in order to allow for greater improvements to those affected.
T
The use of technology to deliver healthcare services and support remotely, including remote consultations with healthcare professionals.
Software that reads text aloud, providing access to people with visual impairments, dyslexia, or other reading disabilities.
Transport Accident Commission
U
The design of products, services, and environments that are accessible to people with disabilities and all other people, regardless of age, size, or ability.
The practice of treating all bodily fluids as if they are potentially infectious, to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
V
Veterans’ Home Care.
A nurse who provides medical care and support to individuals in their own homes.
Software that translates spoken words into text, making it easier for people with physical impairments to input text on a computer or other device.
W
Lifts that provide access for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids to buildings and other areas that are not easily accessible by stairs.
The management and treatment of wounds, including cleaning, dressing changes, and monitoring for signs of infection.
X
Medical imaging tests that may require special accommodations for people with disabilities, including accessible equipment and trained staff.
Y
Tactile paving that provides guidance and direction for people with visual impairments, especially in outdoor environments.
A form of therapy that uses yoga techniques to improve physical and mental health and reduce stress and anxiety.
Z
Policies that aim to reduce the risk of injury to caregivers and individuals receiving care by eliminating the need for manual lifting and transferring of individuals.
Software and device settings that enable users to adjust the size and resolution of text and images, making them easier to see for people with visual impairments.