Pathways to Non-Complex Assistive Technology for HACC Clients in WA

October 2012 – December 2013

The Independent Living Centre WA (now Indigo), together with Deakin University Melbourne, researched pathways to low cost aids and equipment provision for Home and Community Care (HACC) clients in Western Australia.

The research was  carried out in 2013 and funded by HACC Western Australia to evaluate how low cost aids and equipment could most effectively be assessed, provided, accessed and funded. The HACC WA Program, through its adoption of the wellness philosophy emphasises the role of  assistive technology (AT) and home modifications in enabling HACC clients to remain independent at home.

Multi stakeholder analysis was used in the research to investigate AT provision from the perspective of HACC clients, HACC assessors, AT suppliers and participants from a range of other key services. The results identified a complex array of barriers across the health and community care sector and describe a best practice approach to AT provision. Recommendations are made to build capacity across the AT sector to support the implementation of a systematic approach to non complex AT provision.

The research extends the evidence base available regarding the key facilitators of AT, environmental adaption and related strategies; and the recommendations made provide the sector and policy makers with indicators for change.

Full Report: Pathways to non-complex assistive technology for HACC clients

Research Insights: Pathways to non-complex assistive technology for HACC Clients