Home Modification Outcomes for Adults Aged 50 Years and Over and Their Relatives: A Scoping Review

Abstract

As people age, they often need home modifications to remain living in the community. This review sought to identify outcomes from home modifications for adults aged ≥50 years living in the community and their family carers. Peer-reviewed literature was reviewed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Five databases were search (Ageline, CINAHL, Emcare, Medline, Scopus) from 2011 to 2023. N = 38 articles meeting the criteria. Sixteen outcomes were identified (14 positive, two negative) including reduction in falls and falls risk and enhanced quality of life. In addition, five outcomes for family carers were identified (all positive). Only four studies reported costs of home modifications installed. Home modifications can provide substantial benefit to adults aged ≥50 years, supporting their independence and allowing them to remain in their own home.