Top High Tech Home Modifications for the Generalist OT
I can honestly say I am a “jack of all trades” in the occupational therapy world. I am not an assistive technology guru or even have easy access to someone that is, since I live in a rural community. But I DO complete a lot of home assessments and make recommendations on home modifications.
I am going to review what to look for in matching a patient’s needs with equipment, as well as get some ideas flowing on high-tech options, even if you are a “low-tech” OT.
So why do so many of us avoid high tech suggestions when we make recommendations for home modifications?
I know I did when I first started out in the world of OT. My first job was in home health (I know, I know, not ideal for a new grad 🙂 ) and I remember feeling that since I wasn’t confident in making good high tech recommendations, I didn’t want patient’s and families to spend the money on the equipment. So I avoided it.
High-tech home modifications does not have to mean complicated or expensive (but it can!). It does not even have to mean using computer programs or software (that is why there are assistive technology specialists!). But what it does mean isusing technology to promote independence.
Things to consider before recommending high tech home modifications:
What types of equipment is the patient familiar with?
Do they use a smart phone?
Are they even interested in using high-tech options in the home environment?
One size does not fit all.
What high tech home modification options are there and what will work for them?
Are they capable of new learning?
Is the recommendation a good match cognitively?
Matching the patient’s needs with the appropriate equipment (either high or low tech) is the ultimate goal for optimal independence and occupational performance.
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