The home modifications process is about identifying strategies that enable individuals to modify their homes in such a way that they can better participate in their daily activities and tasks.
The occupational therapist (OT) is skilled at recognising the role the environment plays in performing desired occupations as well as other physical, cognitive, behavioural and social factors such as coordination, balance, endurance, strength, safety awareness, problem solving ability, attention, vision, communication, and many other functions.
In addition to an individual’s performance abilities, occupational therapists also evaluate barriers to performance such as features that increase the risk of falls (e.g., loose banisters) or present other hazards.
As part of the initial evaluation, an occupational therapist will analyse how an individual performs a daily task or activity. The outcome of this analysis is suggested modification or intervention strategies that maximise independence and safety in the environment.
Sometimes, modifications might be small scale and targeted, for example the installation of grab rails to assist someone who has difficulty balancing during functional mobility and self-care activities. In other situations, more complex modifications are called for requiring the engagement of other professionals such as architects and builders.
The occupational therapist plays a pivotal role in co-ordinating and guiding these stakeholders to ensure the desired outcomes, to train the individual on any new equipment installed and to provide periodic review to ensure performance outcomes are being met.