Daily living component activity 1 descriptor F (8 points)
Cannot prepare and cook food.
Meaning
As with all other activities, daily living component activity 1 descriptor F refers to the functional abilities of an individual to prepare food activity, and not an individual’s lack of skill or opportunity to learn.
Who it applies to
You should be aware that an individual is most likely to satisfy this descriptor if they are unable to prepare and cook food (even with assistance or supervision).
If an individual can do one of these (preparing or cooking), then a lower descriptor is likely to be more appropriate.
Example: An individual living with paralysis, who satisfies daily living component activity 1 descriptor F
Application form
Christopher has used an electric wheelchair since early adulthood when he was involved in a car accident that caused paralysis from the shoulders down.
He's able to use his adapted wheelchair with a joystick underneath his chin, and lives in a wheelchair accessible house.
His partner filled in the Adult Disability Payment (ADP) application form, and he has a letter from his GP which confirms his needs.
His application overall shows that his partner does most daily living tasks for Christopher.
Case manager’s decision
As Christopher cannot move any part of his body and is unable to participate in this activity, he requires someone else to complete the activity.
The case manager determines that Christopher satisfies daily living component activity 1 descriptor F, because he is unable to perform any part of this activity reliably.
Example: An individual with severe developmental delay, who satisfies daily living component activity 1 descriptor F
Application form
Jack has had severe developmental delay from birth.
He lives in a 24 hour supported house, with 3 friends and 2 full time staff.
His ADP application form was completed by Nicola, his social worker.
She also includes a letter so that Jack will not need to come to a consultation, because he’d find this difficult.
She notes that Jack cannot be left alone in the kitchen at any time because of the risks to his safety.
He has no awareness of danger, and often puts things in his mouth.
She explains that he is unable to follow any instructions. His meals are prepared for him by the staff, because she states that Jack is not able to follow instructions and does not have insight of dangers in the kitchen.
Case manager’s decision
Given the impact Jack’s condition has on him, prompting and supervision together would not be enough to ensure his safety in the kitchen.
He cannot follow instructions and so would not be able to prepare a meal. It would also not be safe for him to prepare a meal.
The case manager determines that Jack satisfies daily living component activity 1 descriptor F, because he cannot participate at all in this activity.