What Is a Functional Capacity Assessment and Why Is It Important?

You might have heard the term Functional Capacity Assessment, or FCA, and wondered what it actually means and why it could be important for you or your loved one.

Simply put, an FCA is a detailed look at how a person manages everyday life. This includes tasks like getting dressed, moving around safely, communicating needs, and taking part in social, work, or learning environments.

Unlike some assessments that focus only on medical diagnoses or isolated skills, an FCA takes a bigger picture view. It helps us understand how all the different parts of someone’s abilities and challenges come together and impact what they can do day to day. It paints a clear picture of strengths and areas where support might be helpful.

Why is this important? Because whether you’re planning for supports through the NDIS or other services, having this kind of information helps ensure the right help is in place. It guides therapists, families, support workers, and planners to make decisions that truly reflect real-life needs.

So what happens during an FCA? Usually, it begins with a conversation with you or your family to understand daily routines, what’s working well, and what feels difficult. The assessor then observes how you or your loved one move, communicate, and participate in different settings. They may use some standard tools alongside their professional experience. Afterward, they write a detailed report summarising the findings and making recommendations to help support independence and quality of life.

To prepare for an FCA, it helps to think about and maybe write down what daily life looks like, including challenges and successes. Consider what goals or questions you want the assessment to focus on. This helps everyone work together to get the best outcome.

If you have questions about FCAs or want some guidance on preparing, feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way.