As Part of Our Client-First Approach, Enjoy 50% Off Your First Session to Find the Right Fit
Wholesome Psychology logo

Understanding Functional Capacity Assessments

Explore the importance of functional capacity assessments in decision-making and support applications for trusteeship, AISH, and PDD.

Functional Capacity Assessment

Canadian flag
Wholesome Psychology, Alberta, CA
Author: wholesome
Date: November 30, 2024

What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?

A functional capacity assessment is a comprehensive evaluation designed to assess an individual's ability to perform essential psychological, cognitive, and emotional tasks required for daily life and work. These assessments provide valuable insights into a person's functional abilities, including their mental, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Conducted by certified psychologists, these assessments rely on evidence-based, standardized psychometric tests to offer an objective understanding of an individual’s current abilities and challenges.

At Wholesome Psychology, our capacity assessments are carefully tailored to meet each person’s unique needs, whether for personal, medical, or work-related purposes. The results of a functional capacity assessment can help guide individuals in understanding their capacity to manage everyday activities, work responsibilities, financial decisions, and community involvement, among other important areas of life.

How Functional Capacity Assessments Can Support Important Applications

Functional capacity assessments are not only valuable for understanding a person’s cognitive and emotional functioning but are also used in key processes such as applying for trusteeship/guardianship, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), and Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD). Below is an overview of how these assessments are relevant in each area:

Trustee/Guardianship Assessments

In cases where it is believed that an adult may lack the capacity to make decisions independently, a capacity assessment can help determine whether a trustee or guardian is necessary. In Alberta, psychologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals may conduct these assessments. Our experienced psychologists follow the Government of Alberta guidelines to evaluate an individual’s cognitive capacity in making decisions regarding personal, medical, or financial matters, and their understanding of the potential consequences of these decisions.

For more detailed information on trustee/guardianship assessments, you can visit the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee.

Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)

When applying for AISH, individuals must provide a medical assessment detailing their medical needs and conditions. However, a functional capacity assessment conducted by a psychologist can supplement this application by providing an in-depth look at the applicant's psychological functioning. This includes identifying mental health challenges, areas of difficulty, and the overall impact these issues have on their daily life and ability to function.

To learn more about AISH, you can visit the AISH website.

Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD)

The PDD program supports Albertans with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible. To apply for PDD services, individuals must submit supporting documentation from a psychologist that outlines any developmental disabilities, including limitations in intellectual capacity and adaptive skills. It is important that the standardized test of intellectual capacity used for the assessment is completed within the last five years.

At Wholesome Psychology, our psychologists are experienced with the PDD guidelines and can assess whether PDD services might be an appropriate fit. For more details about PDD, please refer to the PDD website.

Getting Started with Your Functional Capacity Assessment

If you’re considering a functional capacity assessment for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to contact us to learn more about the process. Our compassionate intake specialists are here to listen to your needs, provide an estimated quote, and discuss the timeline for your assessment. Whether you're seeking an assessment for personal understanding or as part of a formal application, we are committed to offering the support and guidance necessary for your next steps.

Schedule Your Session

Need Support? Book Online Anytime! At Wholesome, we offer personalized counseling for children, youth, adults, couples, and families.

Our dedicated therapists are here to provide you with a safe and tailored therapeutic experience.
Book Now

Our Therapists

Meet Our Therapists: Discover the right fit for your journey. At Wholesome, we believe that the therapeutic relationship is key to your healing.
Explore our team of compassionate and experienced therapists, each bringing unique skills and specialties to support your specific needs. Click below to learn more about our team and find the right match for you.
Show Therapists
crossmenu