NDIS & Aged Care Home Modification Assessments | Occupational Therapy Adelaide

At Thrive Health Therapies, we recognise the importance of home modifications in supporting independence for NDIS participants and elderly individuals. From creating safer environments to improving accessibility, these changes empower individuals to navigate their homes with confidence and ease. Our skilled occupational therapists provide comprehensive assessments and tailored recommendations to enhance your safety, comfort, and overall quality of life.

What are Home Modifications?

Home modifications are adjustments made to the physical environment of a home to improve accessibility, safety, and functionality. These changes can range from simple additions, such as grab rails in the bathroom, to more extensive renovations, such as installing ramps for wheelchair access.

The ultimate goal of home modifications is to reduce barriers, ensuring that the home environment meets the physical, cognitive, and sensory needs of its occupants. Whether for adults with disabilities, older adults wishing to age in place, or children with developmental disabilities, these changes are pivotal in enabling a better quality of life.

The benefits of home modifications are profound and far-reaching, positively impacting individuals and their families:

  • Increased Independence: Accessibility improvements empower individuals to perform daily tasks, such as dressing, cooking, or bathing, with minimal assistance.

  • Enhanced Safety: Reducing fall risks, accidents, and other hazards ensures a safer living environment.

  • Improved Quality of Life: A functional and comfortable home environment supports mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

  • Caregiver Support: Modifications can make caregiving tasks easier and less physically demanding, improving the overall caregiving experience.

  • Ageing in Place: For older adults, modifications allow them to remain in their homes longer, preserving their sense of independence and belonging.

What are the Benefits of Home Modifications?

What Home Modifications Do We Offer?

Below are some common examples of home modifications we prescribe:

1. Bathroom Modifications
The bathroom is one of the most high-risk areas in the home, particularly for individuals with mobility or balance challenges. Common modifications include:

  • Installing grab rails near the toilet, shower, and bathtub for support.

  • Adding non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of falls.

  • Removing shower screens.

  • Installing a handheld showerhead for greater control.

  • Raising or lowering the height of sinks, toilets, or shower fixtures for ease of use.

  • Installation of bidets.

  • Adding shower chairs, transfer benches, or commode chairs to assist with seated bathing.

We are not able to offer more complex bathroom renovations that require changes to the bathroom floor at this stage.

2. Kitchen Adjustments
The kitchen is a vital part of daily living but can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility or dexterity issues. Modifications may include:

  • Lowering countertops and cupboards for wheelchair users.

  • Installing pull-out shelves and drawers for easier access.

  • Adding lever-style or touch-operated taps for individuals with limited hand strength.

  • Improving lighting to enhance visibility and reduce strain.

  • Introducing smart or hands-free appliances to simplify cooking tasks.

3. Entryway and Access Enhancements
Entryways often present significant barriers for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. Enhancements include:

  • Building ramps to replace stairs.

  • Installing automated doors or intercom systems for ease of access.

  • Adding outdoor lighting to improve visibility and security.

  • Placing weatherproof seating near entryways for rest breaks.

4. Safety Features Throughout the Home
Home-wide safety modifications can include:

  • Installing smoke alarms with visual and auditory signals for individuals with sensory impairments.

  • Adding motion-sensor lighting to improve visibility in hallways and staircases.

  • Removing trip hazards, such as loose rugs or clutter.

  • Adding handrails along staircases and in hallways for extra support.

5. Smart Home Technology
Smart home solutions can enhance accessibility and independence through:

  • Voice-activated systems for controlling lights, blinds, or appliances.

  • Video doorbells and security systems for added safety.

  • Smart hubs to integrate and simplify the operation of various devices

What Does a Home Modification Assessment Involve?

A home modification assessment is a collaborative and thorough process that involves multiple steps to ensure the recommended changes meet the individual’s unique needs and goals.

Step 1: Initial Assessment
The process begins with an in-depth assessment conducted by a qualified occupational therapist. During this stage:

  • Needs and goals are identified: The OT works closely with the individual to understand their daily challenges, aspirations, and preferences.

  • Health and mobility are reviewed: A comprehensive review of the individual’s physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities is conducted to determine the type of modifications required.

  • The home environment is assessed: The OT evaluates the layout, accessibility, and functionality of the home. This includes identifying barriers, such as stairs, or poorly lit areas.

Based on this information, the OT develops a personalised plan for home modifications that align with the individual’s goals and improve their independence and safety.

Step 2: Writing Reports for Funding Purposes

If funding is required to implement the recommended home modifications, the occupational therapist assists with preparing the necessary documentation. This step includes:

  • Providing a Clinical Justification Report: The OT prepares a detailed report outlining the individual's needs, the recommended modifications, and how they align with the funding criteria (e.g., NDIS “reasonable and necessary” guidelines or Home Care Package requirements).

  • Obtaining Quotations: The OT collects accurate cost estimates for the proposed modifications, which are included in the funding application.

  • Submitting Funding Applications: The OT works with the individual to complete and submit applications for funding programs, such as the NDIS or aged care support schemes.

  • Liaising with Funding Bodies: The OT may communicate directly with funding bodies to address any questions or provide additional information.

This step ensures the individual has the best chance of securing the financial support needed to proceed with their home modifications.

Step 3: Implementing Modifications
Once the plan is finalised and funding is secured, the modifications are implemented. During this stage:

  • Supervision of installation: The OT may oversee the installation of equipment or structural changes to ensure they meet the required specifications.

  • Final adjustments: Minor modifications may be made to optimise functionality or address any concerns.

The OT works closely with the individual throughout this stage to ensure the changes are seamless and meet their expectations.

Step 4: Education and Training
Once modifications are complete, the OT provides education and training to help the individual and their family adapt to the new environment. This step includes:

  • Demonstrating equipment use: The OT guides the individual in using new tools or devices, such as grab rails, lifts, or automated systems.

  • Teaching safety practices: The OT provides tips on navigating the modified space safely and efficiently.

  • Encouraging confidence: The OT supports the individual in building confidence with their new environment, promoting independence and ease of use.

Step 5: Ongoing Review and Support
Home modifications are not always a one-time solution, as needs may evolve over time. Regular reviews are essential to ensure the home environment continues to meet the individual’s requirements. This step involves:

  • Adjusting modifications: The OT can recommend updates or additional changes to accommodate new challenges or lifestyle changes.

  • Reassessing needs: If significant changes occur in the individual’s health or abilities, the OT may suggest further modifications or replacements.

  • Providing ongoing support: The OT remains available to address any concerns or provide further assistance.

Who Conducts Home Modification Assessments?

Home Modification Assessments are typically completed by qualified occupational therapists. Our therapists are experienced assessing individuals with a wide range of disabilities and conditions and are experts at writing reports that reflect your capacity and needs.

Click here to find out more about our occupational therapists.

How We Deliver Home Modification Assessments at Thrive Health Therapies

Thrive Health Therapies offers community-based and clinic-based assessments.

  • Community-Based Services: We provide community-based occupational therapy in your home, school or kindergarten, or a location convenient to you throughout metropolitan Adelaide. Learn more about our service areas.

  • Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based sessions at our Findon clinic.

Funding Options for Occupational Therapy

We accept a variety of funding options, making augmentative and alternative communication therapy accessible for everyone:

FAQs About Home Modification Assessments

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • Home modifications are changes made to a person’s home to improve safety, accessibility, and functionality. These modifications can range from minor adjustments, such as installing grab rails, to major renovations, like widening doorways or building ramps.

  • Occupational therapists assess an individual’s needs, abilities, and home environment to recommend tailored modifications. They ensure that changes improve accessibility, enhance safety, and support independence in daily activities

  • Common home modifications include:

    • Installing grab rails in bathrooms.

    • Adding ramps or stairlifts for wheelchair access.

    • Widening doorways to accommodate mobility aids.

    • Modifying kitchens for easier use, such as lowering countertops.

    • Installing non-slip flooring to reduce fall risks.

  • Builders or contractors work closely with the occupational therapist to implement the recommended changes. The therapist provides detailed instructions and oversees the process to ensure the modifications are safe and meet accessibility standards.

  • No! We can start working with new clients right away.

    Once we have received a referral form with all of your details, we are able to book an Initial Assessment as soon as possible, depending on your availability.

    You can find our paediatric referral forms here and our adult referral forms here.

    If you have any questions prior to referring please reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • No! You can refer yourself or your child directly via our online referral form, or reach out to us on 0474 248 081, via our online enquiry form or at enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com.

  • Yes! As a registered NDIS provider, Thrive Health Therapies meets rigorous NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. We are passionately committed to upholding the NDIS Practice Standards, providing high-quality and safe supports and services for NDIS participants.

    As a NDIS registered provider, we are also able to offer services to participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA.

  • As a registered NDIS provider, interpreter services are available free of charge for NDIS participants. Please inform us if you require this service, and we will arrange this for you.

Your Trusted NDIS Registered Provider in Adelaide

As a registered NDIS provider in Adelaide, Thrive Health Therapies meets rigorous NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. We are passionately committed to upholding the NDIS Practice Standards, providing high-quality and safe supports and services for NDIS participants.

As a NDIS registered provider, we offer services to participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA.

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