About the assessment questions

CLSC assessors use a structured evaluation to understand a person's functional capacity. While the exact format varies, the following areas are consistently covered. Understanding them in advance allows you to prepare thoughtful, specific answers.

Assessors direct most questions to the person being assessed. Family members are typically given an opportunity to provide additional context. Both perspectives matter.

About daily activities

• Can you tell me about a typical morning for you?
• How do you manage bathing or showering?
• Do you need help getting dressed?
• How do you prepare your meals?
• Are you able to manage your medications on your own?
• How do you get around inside your home?
• Are you able to leave the house on your own?

These questions evaluate independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities.

About mobility and safety

• Have you had any falls in the past six months?
• Do you use a cane, walker, or any other mobility aid?
• Are there any parts of the home that feel unsafe for you?
• How are you managing the stairs?

About health and cognition

• How is your health generally?
• Have there been any new diagnoses or health changes recently?
• Have you been in hospital since your last assessment?
• Are there any concerns about your memory?

For assessments involving potential cognitive impairment, the assessor may conduct a brief cognitive screening test such as the Mini-Cog or Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

About social situation and informal support

• Do you live alone?
• Do you have family or friends who help you regularly?
• How often do they come, and what do they help with?
• Do you feel isolated or lonely?
• Are you able to manage your finances and appointments?

Questions directed at the caregiver (family member)

• How many hours per week do you currently help?
• What tasks do you assist with?
• Has your involvement increased recently?
• How are you managing yourself?
• Are there things you are worried about that you'd like the CLSC to know?

What happens after the questions?

The assessor may observe the person performing tasks (walking, getting up from a chair) to supplement what they are told. They will also observe the home environment.

After the visit, the assessor returns to the CLSC to complete their evaluation and develop a recommendation. You will usually receive feedback on the care plan within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the urgency of the situation.

If the outcome does not reflect what you described, you can ask for a review. Document what was said during the visit so you have a reference point.