The Role of Occupational Therapists in Home Modifications: Creating Safer, More Accessible Living Spaces

When it comes to supporting individuals to live safely and independently in their homes, occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role. Whether it’s a simple grab rail installation or a complex home redesign, OTs are highly trained in assessing a person’s individual needs and recommending tailored modifications to improve safety, accessibility, and quality of life.

What Are Home Modifications?

Home modifications are changes made to a person’s home to make it safer, easier to navigate, and more supportive of daily tasks. These changes can range from minor adjustments to major structural modifications, depending on the person’s goals and level of need.

Minor Home Modifications

Minor modifications are typically quick and cost-effective, yet they can make a big difference. These include:

Installing grab rails in bathrooms or entryways
Adding hand-held showers or lever taps
Threshold ramps for easier access
Non-slip flooring or step-edge markings
Rearranging furniture to allow for mobility aids

An OT will assess how a person moves around their home, what challenges they face, and how these smaller changes can make everyday life more manageable.

Major Home Modifications

Major modifications are more complex and usually require collaboration with builders or specialist contractors. These might include:

Widening doorways to allow wheelchair access
Designing accessible bathrooms with open showers and height-adjustable features
Installing stair lifts or platform lifts
Kitchen redesigns for seated cooking access
Full home layout changes to support mobility and function

OTs not only identify what changes are needed—they work with clients, families, builders, and funding bodies like the NDIS to ensure the proposed modifications are functional, cost-effective, and aligned with the person’s goals.

Why Work with an Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapists bring a unique perspective to home modifications. We don't just look at the building—we look at you. We assess how you move, think, and complete everyday tasks, and how your environment can support (or hinder) your independence.

Our reports can be used to:

Apply for NDIS home modification funding
Collaborate with builders or access consultants
Ensure changes are person-centred and future-proof
Promote confidence, safety, and long-term independence

Ready to Make a Change?

At Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy and Shellharbour Occupational Therapy, our experienced occupational therapists offer comprehensive assessments for both minor and major home modifications. Whether you're just starting to think about adjustments or need support with a complex modification project, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Contact us today on (02)44216013 to learn more or make a referral: Make a Referral. Your home should support your lifestyle—let us help make that a reality.