Home Safety, Accessibility, and Modification

Mon/Wed

Our Environment

major component of living and important modality in treatment planning and execution.

Home Accessibility/Safety

the goal is a free and normal movement around the environment; we get there by evaluating, rehabilitating, and compensating.

Home Safety Evaluations

performed before patient goes home usually by the OT, collaboration with rehab team, OT recommends, and the contractors provide service.

Common Areas of Interest

bathroom, kitchen, halls/doors/doorways, living spaces, and exterior.

Common Bathroom Questions

are certain things manageable (tub, sink, lights, mirror, outlets), transfers safe (shower/tub & toilet), and enough space to maneuver (need for caregiver?).

Common Bathroom Recommendations

toilet (raised toilet seat/OTC/handicap toilet), grab bars, handheld shower head, levers on faucet/shower, tub benches, improved lighting, non-slip surfaces, and outlet/light switches reachable.

Common Kitchen Questions

lightning, work surfaces adequate height/space, cabinets accessible, stove controls accessible, and appliances useable/safe?.

Kitchen Recommendations

multi-level workspaces (counter/sink), organize cabinets/drawers, stove/oven safety = controls in front/middle, accessible appliances, consider lightning options, timers, and flooring.

Halls and Door Questions

thresholds good, switches reachable, floor level (surfaces secure/manageable), doors wide enough (offset hinges and swing in/out), stairs/rails maneuverable?.

Hallways/Doorways Reccomendations

clear and unobstructed openings/paths, 32” clearing at least, level thresholds, carpets/rugs secured or removed, handrails on stairs (both sides ideal), and lighting.

Living Space Questions

furniture right height (enough space to access them), rugs secure, and switches accessible (TV/phone/radio/lights).

Living Space Recommendations

clear space free of clutter, arrange furniture for maximum maneuverability, easy access to phone, lighting, secure carpet/rugs or remove, chairs/couches with arm rests and firm/tall backs.

Exterior Questions

sidewalk/steps in good condition, steps have bilateral handrail, door threshold, door opening (accessible = lock, handle, alarm)?.

Exterior Recommendations

driveway free of cracks and even surfaces, bilateral exterior handrails, door width at least 32”, lever handles, motion lighting, and accessible mail slot/box.

Minimum Pathway/Hallway Width

36 inches.

Ratio for Ramp

1:12 = for every one foot up, you must go 12 feet forward.

Most Narrow Wheelchair

26 inches.

Off Set Hinge

makes the door able to get out of the way (moves the door to be in the same position of the door frame).