Definition
Environmental modifications (EM) entail the rearranging, rebuilding, or retrofitting of an existing space or building to make it accessible, usable, and safe either for a specific individual or for people with disabilities, in general. This type of modification can involve installing equipment, simple structural changes to a single room or significant alterations to an entire structure.
Current Knowledge
Modifications may be undertaken (1) out of an individual’s desire to optimize mobility and independence; (2) family’s concern about enhancing the safety of a physically or cognitively compromised individual; (3) under direction from a rehabilitation professional; or (4) under a legal mandate such as the American Disabilities Act. Whatever the case, EM can entail simple installation of prefabricated adaptive devices (durable medical equipment, DME) such as grab bars and a shower bench,...
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References and Readings
Fielo, S. B., & Warren, S.A. (2001). Home adaptation: Helping older people age in place. Geriatric Nursing. 22(5), 239–247.
Tse, T. (2005). The environment and falls prevention: Do environmental modifications make a difference? Australian Occupational Therapy Journal. 52, 271–281.
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Behel, J. (2011). Environmental Modifications. In: Kreutzer, J.S., DeLuca, J., Caplan, B. (eds) Encyclopedia of Clinical Neuropsychology. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79948-3_397
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79948-3_397
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