Access standards and their role in guiding interventions

There is much confusion and debate about the relevance and application of access standards to home modification practice. Although access standards were created in response to public access requirements in the community, occupational therapists in home modification practice often use them as a reference, particularly with regard to major modifications. The primary focus of occupational therapy home modification practice is a thorough understanding of the needs of the individual and the unique fit between the individual and his or her home environment. However, sound practice also requires an understanding of the relevance and the appropriateness of the application of access standards when recommending modification to the home environment. This chapter seeks to inform occupation therapists about access standards- how they are developed, their benefits and limitations, and their use in the design of public buildings- as well as their applications to home modification practice. Therapists will find this information useful with working with other stakeholders involved in the home modifications process as there can be confusion about the application of access standards to modification of domestic homes.