Accessible Home Modification and Impacts: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Disability studies
• Environmental psychology

Background:

• Accessible home modifications (HMs) are crucial for the well-being of people with disabilities (PwDs).
• Occupational therapists often recommend HMs, but the implementation process is frequently managed by clients.
• Limited research exists on PwDs' experiences with implementing accessible HMs in North America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe the process and impacts of implementing accessible home modifications from the perspective of people with disabilities.
• To identify key themes related to the lived experiences of PwDs in modifying their homes for accessibility.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative descriptive design was employed.
• Semistructured interviews were conducted with community-dwelling adults with musculoskeletal and sensory disabilities and their caregivers in Ontario, Canada.
• Codebook thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data.

Main Results:

• Four emergent themes detailed the HM process: unmet needs, barriers, facilitators, and outcomes.
• Key issues included independence, safety, dignity, and the intersection of structural, financial, and attitudinal barriers.
• Participants reported a lack of guidance and the need for self-advocacy throughout the HM process.

Conclusions:

• Home modifications are vital for achieving person-environment fit for PwDs.
• The complexity of the HM process underscores the role of occupational therapists in supporting clients and engaging in advocacy.
• Findings emphasize the need for improved support systems and resources for PwDs undertaking home modifications.