What home safety equipment is right for you or your loved one? That depends on your needs, your preferences, and your environment. Typical issues include: To determine the best solution for you, obtain an evaluation and recommendation from an Occupational Therapist. Occupational Therapists' goals are primarily to foster the greatest level of independence by helping people make their day to day lives more efficient and convenient. Your insurance may cover part or all of the cost of the occupational therapy. A referral from your physician will most likely be required, so ask in advance. Information about Medicare coverage for Occupational Therapy is at this link to Medicare.gov. If you have a Medicare supplement plan (Medigap), it may cover the Medicare deductible and/or Medicare copays. Learn more about Medicare supplement plans at this link to Medicare.gov. Even if your insurance does not cover these services, they will be worth the cost of private payment. Check with the therapist in advance to determine what type of payment sources they accept. The video below will tell you more about the role of an Occupational Therapist in home modification. Even if you have no current needs, it makes sense to live in a home that is designed for safety and convenience. Universal Design and Visitability standards how help consumers and builders understand how to design, build, or modify a home for flexibility and support for people of all ages and abilities. AARP’s “Home Fit” Guide provides worksheets that can help you make your home more convenient. Home safety equipment is available from may sources including: Ask your Occupational Therapist for recommendations of devices and suppliers, and consider whether your insurance will cover the particular device or supplier. Before purchasing equipment, investigate your insurance coverage. Your insurance may cover only certain types of equipment and only certain suppliers. Medicare coverage of home safety equipment is described at this link. It is important that home safety equipment be installed properly. For example, grab bars must be anchored in the studs of the wall. Consider hiring an installer who is a Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS), These professionals have been trained by the National Association of Home Builders to be aware of the unique needs of the older adult population and apply strategies and techniques to provide comprehensive and practical home modification solutions. CAPS graduates also pledge to uphold a professional code of ethics and are required to take continuing education to maintain their designation. You can find a Certified Aging in Place Specialist in this directory. AARP’s “Livable Communities” initiative offers these tips on How to Hire a Home Improvement Contractor. Remember to learn what maintenance your equipment requires and make a note of when to perform it. These videos from Simple Comforts will demonstrate the types of home safety devices that are available.
Determining What Home Safety Equipment is Right for You
Proactive Home Design for Aging in Place
Sources of Home Safety Equipment
Insurance Coverage of Home Safety Equipment
Installing Home Safety Equipment
Maintenance of Home Safety Equipment
Examples of Home Safety Equipment
Care is There can help by:
Resources for Home Safety Equipment
Next Steps
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