Home visits

When home-based physiotherapy may be appropriate

Published Reviewed 5 min read

In plain language

Home visits are the right choice for some patients — but not all. Here's when they add clinical value and when a clinic visit will get you better results.

  • Best for people who can't safely travel or need environment-specific assessment.
  • Clinic visits give access to equipment, gym and multidisciplinary team.
  • Hybrid plans (some home, some clinic) work well after discharge or falls.

When home visits help

Recent hospital discharge with restricted mobility, falls-risk assessment in the actual home environment, complex equipment set-up, palliative care, or when transport is a barrier.

When the clinic is better

Once you're safe to travel, the clinic gives you gym equipment, hydrotherapy access nearby, and easier coordination with other clinicians. We often recommend an initial home visit followed by clinic-based rehabilitation.

Next steps

References

  1. Physical Activity and Exercise Guidelines for Older AustraliansDepartment of Health and Aged Care