Home Modifications
 This section connects you to information on how you can arrange modifications to make your home safer.
General information on home modifications
Modifications, repairs and renovations can assist people with Parkinson’s and their carers to live independently and safely in their homes. Examples can include installing equipment, such as grab rails and pull handles, or making structural changes to a home, such as widening doorways, installing ramps or bathroom modifications. Some of these modifications will require proper installation by a qualified tradesperson.
Note: A range of aged-care and disability support services can help you with daily living activities so you can remain safe and independent at home.
Find out more in our help to stay at home section.
How do I arrange home modifications?
When arranging home modifications, the following steps are recommended:
- Carefully read the 'helpful resources' section below.
- Have a home assessment by an occupational therapist (OT) to determine what modifications may help. OTs may also help source equipment and recommend local tradespeople.
- Find out whether you are eligible for a subsidy (see services
below) or whether the modifications are covered by your health
insurance.
- Contact a home modification service
or accredited tradesperson to obtain
quotes.
Helpful resources
What services are available?
Home
Renovation Service - 03 9815 1900; 1300 136 513
The Victorian Government’s Department of Human Services (DHS), offers
free home inspections and reports suggesting modifications that
would make home living easier and safer. This is carried out by
an unbiased qualified architect arranged by the Archicentre
in consultation with an occupational therapist.
Eligibility is limited to those who hold a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card and who are over 60 or have a disability. Carers of those in the above categories are also eligible.
Hint! If you can’t afford essential renovations, you can apply for a subsidised financial assistance package through the Home Renovation Service.
Victorian Aids & Equipment Program
Examples of home modifications available under this program include: bathroom, toilet, kitchen and laundry modifications specifically related to the eligible person’s disability.
Home and Community Care (HACC)
In terms of aids and equipment, the HACC program may provide:
- Subsidised appointments with allied health and medical professionals (e.g. occupational therapists)
- Minor home modifications, such as installing grab rails
Note: HACC arrangements and service provision may vary between regions. Contact your local provider for more information.
Veteran’s HomeFront - 1800 80 1945
is a Department of Veterans’ Affairs program designed to prevent falls and accidents in the home. All Gold and White Repatriation Card Holders are eligible for an annual free home assessment with subsidised installation of safety appliances, such as grab-rails or non-slip floor surfacing.
Where can I get advice if I need to use a builder or tradesperson?
Sometimes your local council, Home and Community Care service provider or aids and equipment retailer may be able to do basic installations.
If you need to use a builder or tradesperson, then consider getting advice from Archicentre and Master Builders Association.
Archicentre - 1300 13 45 13
is a subsidiary of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) and is recognised as Australia’s largest architectural home advisory service. Qualified architects provide unbiased and informed professional inspections, an advice service, building design reports and suggestions on selecting contractors. Archicentre also runs the free inspection service for those eligible under the Home Renovation Service.
Master
Builders Association -
1800 451 393
have a booklet on ‘adaptable living’ and a list of builders who do adaptable alterations.
How can I use tradespeople safely?
Be aware of unscrupulous tradespeople! Aged people are often prime targets for illegal trade practices.
To avoid this trap:
- Always use accredited builders and tradespeople
- Get competitive quotes
- Know your rights - Read Consumer Affairs Victoria ’s booklet: ‘Building and Renovating – a Consumer Guide’. Visit their website at or contact them on 1300 558 181.
- Read the Victorian Home Modifications Factsheet
- Consider using the Home Renovation Service
- Call Archicentre’s advice line, particularly for jobs requiring specialist expertise.
- Find reputable contractors by asking your occupational therapist or browse the list held by Master Builders Association.
Parkinson’s purpose built home
A Parkinson’s purpose built home was designed to suit the needs of a couple in Western Australia. A video and brochure, produced by Parkinson’s Western Australia, demonstrates the ideas and special products used. These can be valuable educational tools for those who want to modify or design their homes to increase safety and, in particular, to prevent backward falls. The video may be purchased directly from Parkinson’s Western Australia , see ‘Services’, Publications’, Videos’, ‘A Special Home for Bob’ or hire it through Parkinson’s Victoria library.
Download the brochure here: ‘A
Special Home for Bob’  (PDF
file 1.96MB) |
