Home Modifications: Disabled and Seniors

NOTE: Medicare never covers home modifications, such as ramps or widened doors for improving wheelchair access. Though your doctor may suggest that home modifications may help due to your medical condition, Medicare does not include coverage for them under its durable medical equipment (DME) benefit.

Home improvements, modifications, and repairs can help older adults maintain their independence and prevent accidents. Work can range from simple changes, like replacing doorknobs with pull handles, to major structural projects such as installing a wheelchair ramp.

Rebuilding Together is repairing the homes of qualified
homeowners living within the East End of Houston at NO COST!
https://rebuildinghouston.org/

The Texas Ramp Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free wheelchair
ramps to low-income older adults and people with disabilities.
https://www.texasramps.org/

Changes can improve the accessibility, adaptability, and/or universal design of a home. Improving accessibility involves things like widening doorways and lowering countertop and light switch heights for someone who uses a wheelchair.

Changes that do not require home redesign, such as installing grab bars in bathrooms, are adaptability features. Universal design is usually built in when a home is constructed. It includes features that are sturdy and reliable, easy for all people to use, and flexible enough to be adapted for special needs.

Home safety and improvement programs for seniors includes adaptations to homes that can make it easier and safer to manage activities of daily living such as bathing, cooking, and stair climbing.

Examples of home safety and improvements include installing grab bars and transfer benches in bathrooms, and ramps and handrails for home access. Alterations to the physical structure of the home can improve its overall safety and condition.

Hiring a Contractor

Find Private Pay Contractors

For some repairs and improvements, you may choose to hire a professional contractor without a public assistance program. In that case, keep these important tips in mind.

Make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured for the specific type of work.
Check with your local Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce to see whether any complaints against the contractor are on file.

Talk with family and friends to get recommendations based on their experiences.

Contractors with good reputations can usually be counted on to do a good job again.

Ask for a written agreement that specifies the exact tasks and timeline.

Your agreement should outline the total estimated cost and require only a small down payment. The terms should require balance payment when the job is completed.

Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to help you review the contract and/or monitor work throughout the project.

Home improvement programs for seniors promotes independence allowing them to
remain in their homes. The most important purpose of home improvement programs is to help prevent accidents such as senior falls. Research suggests that one-third to one-half of home accidents can be prevented by home modification and repair.

Older people too often live in older homes, 20 years or older, that desperately need some types of repairs and modifications. Home improvement programs for seniors can accommodate lifestyle changes along with declining abilities to also increase comfort.

To find funds to help with home repairs check out the following:

Veteran's Affairs

USDA Rural Development

US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Weatherization Assistance

Texas Home Modification Services

Home Improvement Assistance