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Image: Logo – The text “Home Usability Peer Network” is bordered by an icon of a green house.

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Home Usability Assessments
February 14, 2024
Kelsey Goddard

>> SLIDE 3: Goals of a Home Assessment

•	Maximize independence in daily activities
•	Enhance safety throughout the home
•	Promote comfort and ease of use

>> SLIDE 4: Steps of a Home Assessment

1.	Initial Consultation: Meet with the person to understand their needs and challenges.
2.	Home Evaluation: Examine entryways, living spaces, bathrooms, and other areas of the home.
3.	Recommendations: Use findings to inform actionable recommendations, which can include both minor adjustments & major modifications.

>> SLIDE 5: Initial Consultation (Step 1)

•	Gathers comprehensive information about the individual's daily routines, physical abilities, and any specific challenges they face in their living environment.
•	Involves the individual, possibly their caregivers, and the assessment team working together to identify needs and goals.
•	Discussion covers current home layout, personal preferences, and any specific areas of concern.

>> SLIDE 6: Initial Consultation (Step 1)

•	Identify how initial consultations can align with existing CIL procedures (e.g., intake).
•	Equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct effective consultations
•	Develop or adapt forms and checklists to include prompts about the person’s home environment, challenges, and goals.
•	Establish clear protocols for follow-up after the initial consultation.

>> SLIDE 7: Initial Consultation (Step 1)

Example resource to use:
Home Satisfaction “Quiz” 
http://useablehome.ri.umt.edu/1924-2/  
Image: A screenshot of the Home Satisfaction "Quiz."

>> SLIDE 8: Home Evaluation (Step 2)

•	Coordinate with the person to schedule a convenient time for the evaluation.
o	In-person: Conduct in-person at the person’s home to understand the physical space and individual interactions with their environment.
o	Remote: Use video conferencing tools when in-person visits are not feasible.
•	Involve PTs, OTs, and State Assistive Technology program specialists to offer expert insights.

>> SLIDE 9: Home Evaluation (Step 2)

Key parts of a home evaluation: 
•	Mobility: Evaluation of entrances, doorways, and floor plans.
•	Safety: Identification of potential hazards.
•	Usability: Assessment of the usability of kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.
•	Adaptability: Consideration of the home's ability to be modified or adapted over time.
•	Technology: Review of how smart home technologies & assistive devices can support goals.

>> SLIDE 10: Home Evaluation (Step 2)

Example resource to use:
AARP HomeFit Guide
https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/housing/info-2020/homefit-guide.html  
Image: A screenshot of the AARP HomeFit Guide.

>> SLIDE 11: Home Evaluation (Step 2)

Example resource to use:
Home Safety Self Assessment Tool
http://useablehome.ri.umt.edu/www/wp-content/uploads/Home-Safety-Self-Assessment-Booklet-HSSAT.pdf 
Image: A screenshot of the Home Safety Self Assessment Tool.

>> SLIDE 12: Recommendations (Step 3)

•	Review and analyze the data collected during the home evaluation to identify key areas of need and potential solutions.
•	Collaborate with the person and their support team to prioritize modifications based on urgency, impact on daily living, and budget considerations.
•	Develop specific, practical recommendations for modifications, including minor adjustments and major renovations, as well as suggestions for assistive devices or technology.

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Questions?