Restorative Allied Health
Allied health services specifically directed at maximising or restoring an older person's functional independence rather than maintaining or managing a stable condition.
Full Definition
Restorative allied health is a philosophical and service delivery orientation applied by physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and allied health assistants within aged care and rehabilitation settings. It prioritises active participation, graded task practice, and self-management over passive treatment or carer assistance. In community and residential aged care funding frameworks in Australia, restorative allied health is distinguished from maintenance therapy in both service intent and funding eligibility. Editors must note that 'restorative allied health' is distinct from 'restorative nursing', which refers specifically to nursing staff applying similar principles in personal care activities. The term should not be hyphenated.
Usage
Usage note: Do not hyphenate. Distinguish from 'restorative nursing', which involves nursing staff rather than allied health professionals.
In Context
- "The home care package included fortnightly restorative allied health reviews to progress the client's kitchen independence programme." — Care plan review
- "Funding for restorative allied health is available under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme for eligible older Australians." — Service funding guideline