History and future of home modification services

The development of home modification as a strategy to respond to the needs of people with a disability and an aging population is linked to trends in both in the population and demographics of the developed world and changes in social, political and legislative outlooks. This chapter will review the way in which home modification services have been established internationally and investigate issues facing home modification service delivery in past, current, and future contexts. Essential to effective service delivery is an understanding of the roles, perspectives and responsibilities of key stakeholders in the home modification process. To be an effective part of the home modification service delivery process, the occupational therapist requires an understanding of the various perspectives of each stakeholder. This chapter will explore the role and perspectives of each stakeholder, as well as provide a range of strategies to assist the occupational therapist to achieve effective and positive service delivery outcomes. By the end of this chapter, the reader will be able to: • identify factors influencing the development of home modification (HM) services • discuss home modification policy and service systems currently operating internationally • describe and contrast roles and perspectives of key stakeholders in home modification service delivery and implications for effective and efficient service provision • outline strategies for occupational therapists working within a HM service when working with other key stakeholders • identify possible future directions in HM services and strategies for the occupational therapist to assist in effective and efficient service development and provision.