HOME MODIFICATIONS
4Pages

A GUIDE TO HOME MODIFICATIONS Does your home meet your needs for Independence and Safety? By Hector Borrero, OTR/L for SP Ableware When it comes to a no-cost or low-cost, "Do it yourself" approach is possible. No-cost solutions may include: • Decreasing clutter to increase accessibility. • Clear electrical cords from pathways to avoid tripping. • Remove loose area rugs that can cause falls. • Re-arrange furniture to allow accessibility of a walking device or wheelchair. • Set the water heater temperature at 120°F to save energy and avoid burns if sensory deficits are present. • Open window treatments to allow more natural light in the home • Use a stool or rollator (walker with seat) to sit and perform daily activities or homemaking tasks to conserve energy, reduce risk for falls and reduce lower back pain. • Ensure sure your house number is clear and visible for emergency services to locate your home faster. • Organize and keep frequently used items within reach to minimize bending. Low-cost solutions may include: 1. Add nightlights in hallways and bathrooms to maintain a degree of visibility at night. 2. Install Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Consider one with light alert for deaf clients. Install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet to assist with support and safety during transfers. Modify doorknobs by adding knob grips or replace with lever handles for better grip. Retrofit cabinets with pullout baskets or drawers to facilitate access of kitchen items needed. These can be used in the bathroom cabinets as well. Consider durable medical equipment (DME) to promote safety and independence these include 3 in 1 commode, shower chair, shower bench, hand-held shower and walker with seat. Some of these items may or may not be covered by your insurance.

According to AARP, “nearly 90 percent of people 45+ want to remain in their current home and community for as long as possible.” A home not always can continue to meet your needs as we age due to either a disease, illness, permanent injury, disability or physical limitation. Home modifications can be the answer to minimize or eliminate physical barriers allowing you to continue your daily routines and recreational activities of your choice. Home modifications can be categorized in two groups: simple (no-cost or low-cost) or complex (expensive). When home modifications fall under the...

Accessibility Regardless if you own or rent, being able to enter and exit the home without struggles should be your primary goal. Similarly, being able to access different rooms within the home such as a bathroom, kitchen or bedroom gives you a sense of freedom and independence. Adopting environmental modifications will improve accessibility. Keep in mind that in case of an emergency such as a fire, accessibility becomes number one priority for first responders. Safety Home maintenance is the key to maintaining safety in the home. Anything from checking smoke detectors in alternate seasons...

Additional Resources The following organizations can be of assistance with home modifications: • American Society on Aging • Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access • Center for Universal Design • Gerontological Society of America • International Council on Active Aging • National Association of Home Builders • National Council on Aging • National Institute on Aging • National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification, which includes the Do-Able Renewable Home Maddok SR ABLELUARE~ Live Independently • https://www.aota.org/-/media/...