For many older Australians, staying at home for longer is an important part of maintaining independence, comfort and quality of life. But as needs change, everyday tasks around the home can become more difficult or unsafe.

This is where Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) can make a meaningful difference.

Assistive technology includes equipment, devices and products designed to help someone complete everyday activities more safely or independently. This could be something as simple as a shower chair or specialised kitchen equipment, through to more complex technology designed around an individual’s specific needs.

Home modifications, meanwhile, involve making changes to the home environment to improve safety, accessibility and independence. Examples can include installing grab rails, modifying bathrooms, improving access into the home or making changes to doorways.

Through Australia’s aged care system, eligible people may be able to access AT-HM supports as part of their home care funding.

How can AT-HM support independence at home?

The right equipment or modification can turn a challenging everyday task into something that feels manageable again.

For example, someone who finds getting in and out of the shower difficult may benefit from a shower chair, handheld showerhead or grab rails. Someone experiencing difficulty moving around their home may benefit from mobility equipment or modifications that make pathways and entrances easier to navigate.

AT-HM isn’t just about making a home safer. It’s also about helping people maintain their routines and continue doing the things that matter to them.

That might mean being able to prepare a meal independently, move around the house with greater confidence, get dressed without assistance or safely enjoy the garden.

Importantly, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. The most appropriate support depends on the person’s individual circumstances, goals, home environment and level of independence.

What types of support could be available?

AT-HM covers a broad range of products and modifications, depending on an individual’s assessed needs and eligibility.

Assistive technology may include items such as:

• Shower chairs and other bathroom equipment
• Walking and mobility aids
• Personal alert systems
• Equipment to assist with eating, dressing or other daily activities
• Specialised household equipment
• Technology that supports communication or safety

Home modifications may include changes such as:

• Grab rails and other bathroom safety features
• Improved access to bathrooms and other areas of the home
• Ramps or other accessibility solutions
• Changes to doorways or entrances
• Modifications that make everyday activities easier and safer

Some supports may be relatively straightforward, while more complex modifications can require additional assessment, planning and professional input.

Why professional advice matters

Choosing the right equipment or deciding what changes should be made to a home isn’t always straightforward.

An item that works well for one person may not be suitable for another. The layout of the home, the person’s mobility, their goals and their changing needs all need to be considered.

That’s why assessment and professional advice can be an important part of the process.

An occupational therapist, for example, can assess how someone moves through their home and identify potential risks or barriers to independence. They can then recommend equipment or modifications designed around the person’s needs and circumstances.

At Healthcare Australia (HCA), our Home Care and Disability Services teams can help people understand the support available to them and navigate their care journey. Our goal is to support people to live safely and independently at home, with services tailored to their individual needs.

Making home a place where independence can grow

Our homes should support the way we want to live, not make everyday life harder.

For older Australians, small changes can sometimes have a significant impact. A grab rail in the right place, equipment that makes showering easier or a modification that improves access can help someone feel more confident and maintain their independence.

AT-HM is ultimately about more than equipment or home improvements. It’s about helping people live well at home, for longer.

If you or someone you care about could benefit from additional support at home, HCA can help you explore your options. Our experienced team can work with you to understand your needs, goals and available supports, so you can feel confident about the next step in your care journey.

Interested in finding out more about Home Care with HCA? Get in touch with our team today. Visit our website for further resources.