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Top 20 Occupational Therapy Assessments


occupational therapy assessment with pen and paper and glasses sitting on a desk surface


An occupational therapy assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by occupational therapists to determine an individual's functional abilities, limitations, and needs in their daily life activities. Assessments aim to identify the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social factors hindering a person's ability to perform everyday tasks and participate in meaningful occupations.


Indeed, there is a wide variety of occupational therapy assessments available, each designed to evaluate specific aspects of a person's functioning and needs. Choosing the right assessment can be challenging, but it is crucial for tailoring an effective treatment plan that addresses the individual's unique needs and goals.


To help you navigate the numerous options, we have compiled a list of the top 20 most commonly used OT assessments. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, but it provides a good starting point for exploring the different types of assessments utilized in occupational therapy.




For those seeking a comprehensive list of over 300 occupational therapy assessments, check out the following link: https://www.otandme.ca/ot-assessments


The following table briefly describes each assessment, the primary population for which it is used, the approximate cost to purchase the assessment, and the approximate time to complete the assessment. The assessments listed cover a range of domains, including physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. They evaluate individuals with various conditions, such as neurological disorders, developmental delays, chronic health conditions, and mental health issues.

Assessment Title

​Description

Primary Population

Time to Complete

​Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM)

An assessment that evaluates an individual's performance and satisfaction with daily activities.

Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities, or those experiencing difficulties with daily living tasks.

30-60 minutes

The Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS)

An observation-based assessment that measures an individual's ability to perform everyday tasks.

Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities, or those experiencing difficulties with daily living tasks.

1-2 hours

Modified Barthel Index (MBI)

An assessment that measures an individual's ability to perform basic activities of daily living.

Individuals with physical disabilities or those recovering from illness or injury.

10-15 minutes

Functional Independence Measure (FIM)

An assessment that measures an individual's ability to perform daily living tasks and assesses the need for assistance.

Individuals with physical disabilities or those recovering from illness or injury.

60-90 minutes

Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)

A screening assessment that measures cognitive function, specifically orientation, memory, attention, and language.

Individuals suspected of having cognitive impairment or dementia.

5-10 minutes

Barthel Index

An assessment that measures an individual's ability to perform basic activities of daily living.

Individuals with physical disabilities or those recovering from illness or injury.

10-15 minutes

Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI)

An assessment that evaluates functional abilities and limitations in children with disabilities.

Children (birth to 7 years) with developmental delays or disabilities.

60-90 minutes

Sensory Profile

Assesses sensory processing patterns, including sensitivity to different stimuli, seeking or avoiding behaviors, and behavioral responses

Children and adults

30-45 minutes

Peabody Developmental Motor Scales (PDMS)

Evaluates gross and fine motor skills, including reflexes, stationary and locomotion abilities, object manipulation, and grasping

Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers

45-60 minutes

Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2)

Measures gross and fine motor skills, including body coordination, strength, agility, speed, and accuracy

Children and adults

45-60 minutes

Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS)

A personalized method to measure the achievement of specific goals and objectives, including behavioral, functional, and social outcomes

Children and adults

Variable, depends on goal complexity

WeeFIM

Evaluates functional independence and assistance needs in daily activities, such as self-care, mobility, and communication

Children and adolescents

30-60 minutes

Rivermead Motor Assessment (RMA)

Assesses motor impairments, including strength, range of motion, coordination, and balance, and provides a functional profile of activities of daily living

Adults

30-60 minutes

Miller Assessment for Preschoolers (MAP)

Evaluates cognitive and motor development, including visual-motor integration, verbal and nonverbal abilities, and basic motor skills

Preschoolers

30-60 minutes

School Function Assessment (SFA)

Assesses functional performance and participation in school-related activities, including academic tasks, physical education, and social interactions

School-aged children

60-90 minutes

Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development

Evaluates cognitive, language, motor, social-emotional, and adaptive skills, and identifies developmental delays or disabilities

Infants and toddlers

60-90 minutes

Functional Reach Test

Assesses balance and stability while reaching forward, and predicts fall risk in older adults

Adults and older adults

5-10 minutes

Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test

Measures mobility and functional performance, including the time to stand up from a chair, walk a short distance, turn around, and sit back down

Older adults and individuals with neurological or musculoskeletal conditions

5-10 minutes

Disclaimer: The information provided in these tables is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or diagnosis. The cost and time to complete each assessment may vary depending on the location, the specific circumstances, and other factors. It is recommended to consult with a licensed occupational therapist or other qualified healthcare professional before using any of these assessments. The accuracy and completeness of the information in these tables are not guaranteed and may change over time.

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