The Impact of a Two-Visit Occupational Therapy Home Modification Model on Low-Income Older Adults

Abstract

Background: Various studies support the benefit of occupational therapist-led home modification to support successful aging in place for older adults. However, methodological differences limit generalizability. This study aimed to determine the impact of a replicable two-visit occupational therapy home modification program on occupational performance of low-income, community-dwelling older adults. Method: The researcher used a quasi-experimental one group pretest-posttest design. The participants were low-income homeowners, age 55 years and older, with decreased performance and/or satisfaction in one or more ADLs and IADLs as determined by the COPM. An occupational therapist provided the participants with a home safety assessment using the Rebuilding Together Safe at Home Checklist, along with a follow-up visit to deliver equipment and education. Results: Data analysis using paired t-tests revealed statistically significant increases in COPM performance and satisfaction ratings from pretest to posttest for the nine participants. The mean average total costs for home modification were $10,396.65 compared to average annual health care costs from $22,763 to $154,478. Conclusion: A two-visit model of occupational therapist-led home modifications benefits low-income older adults. This study provides support for these cost-effective services in support of AOTA's Vision 2025, to maximize health, well-being, and quality of life for all people, populations, and communities through effective solutions that facilitate participation in everyday living.