Accessibility & Home Safety
The occupational therapist assesses clients in their home environment to identify potential safety and accessibility issues. This assessment can take place immediately following an injury, or at any time as functional changes occur due to injuries, illness, aging and/or health-related concerns.
An in-home safety assessment helps seniors live safely and independently by identifying potential hazards and providing personalized recommendations. Our occupational therapists evaluate the home environment, daily routines, and physical, cognitive, and emotional health factors to improve safety, prevent falls, and support overall well-being.
What to Expect During a Home Safety Assessment
(Entire home assessments can take several hours, and may be spread out over more than one session)
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Home Environment Evaluation
- Assessing entrances, hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms for safety risks.
- Identifying fall hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting, or cluttered spaces.
- Evaluating accessibility for mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs.
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Daily Activity & Cognitive Function Assessment
- Observing how the senior moves around the home and completes daily tasks.
- Identifying challenges with self-care activities such as bathing, dressing, or cooking.
- Assessing memory, problem-solving, and attention to address cognitive changes that may impact safety.
- Recommending strategies to support medication management, routine organization, and home navigation.
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Fall Prevention & Mobility Support
- Assessing balance, strength, and movement to minimize fall risks.
- Recommending home modifications, such as grab bars, railings, or non-slip flooring.
- Providing education on safe mobility techniques and transfer strategies.
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Personalized Recommendations
- Advising family members or caregivers on safety improvements and cognitive or emotional support strategies.
- Developing an action plan for home modifications, therapy interventions, or caregiver training.
- When larger accessibility renovation projects are required, the occupational therapist assists by collaborating with accessibility design specialists and/or contractors throughout the planning stages, ensuring that the physical needs of the individual are met in the design.
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Our goal is to create a safe, accessible, and supportive home environment that allows seniors to maintain independence and quality of life despite physical or cognitive changes.
Schedule an in-home safety assessment today to ensure a safer and more comfortable living space for you or your loved one.