Allied Health Assistants

Our Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) play a supportive role working alongside our physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists. Their role is focused on assisting participants with day-to-day tasks and therapy exercises to help improve their overall quality of life and functional independence.  

 Our AHAs work with participants to assist in achieving specific therapy goals set by physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and others. They help with:

• Exercise programs: Leading or supporting individuals in physical exercises that have been planned by physiotherapists.
• Rehabilitation activities: Assisting with exercises aimed at improving mobility, strength, or functional independence.
• Functional tasks: Helping with daily living activities like dressing, cooking, or personal care under the guidance of occupational therapists.

 AHAs may assist participants in activities of daily living (ADLs) such as:

• Bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Meal preparation and cooking.
• Managing household tasks (e.g., cleaning, shopping, or organizing).

This support helps participants maintain or develop independence in these tasks.

Our AHAs follow the treatment plans created by qualified allied health professionals, ensuring that exercises and therapy activities are carried out as directed. They help participants stay on track with their rehabilitation programs by:

• Encouraging participation in therapy exercises.
• Tracking progress and reporting to the allied health professional.
• Modifying exercises based on individual progress or needs (under the supervision of the treating professional).

In some cases, AHAs may assist speech pathologists in helping participants improve communication skills. This could include:

• Assisting with speech exercises.
• Providing support in social situations to help the participant practice communication strategies.

They would follow the speech pathologist’s plan to ensure the person continues to improve or maintain their skills.

 Under the guidance of physiotherapists, AHAs may:

• Help participants with specific mobility exercises.
• Assist with walking, transferring from one location to another (e.g., bed to wheelchair).
• Support with the use of assistive devices such as walkers, wheelchairs, or mobility aids.

 AHAs are typically tasked with recording progress related to therapy goals. They may:

• Take notes on how participants respond to certain exercises.
• Monitor any changes in condition or ability.
• Provide feedback to the supervising therapist about progress or challenges.

This information is vital for adjusting therapy plans or identifying when a participant needs further support.

 Allied Health Assistants can also support people in social and community engagement by:

• Helping individuals practice social skills.
• Supporting participation in community events, group activities, or day programs.
• Encouraging interaction with peers and community members to foster inclusion.

 AHAs may provide training and education to families and carers on how to support the participant’s therapy goals at home or in other settings. This could involve:

• Educating caregivers on how to assist with daily tasks.
• Offering guidance on supporting the individual in maintaining their therapy at home.