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Home Safety, Equipment & Modifications

Making your home safer can significantly reduce falls and improve independence.
These services focus on assessments, assistive technology, and practical home adjustments.

What Is Included?

Home safety and modification services may include:

  • Occupational therapy (OT) home safety assessments

  • Falls risk evaluations

  • Mobility aid recommendations (walkers, frames, wheelchairs)

  • Installation of grab rails and handrails

  • Bathroom safety adjustments

  • Ramps and minor entry modifications

  • Assistive technology recommendations

  • Orthotics and prosthetics assessments

The focus is always safety, function, and independence — not cosmetic improvement.

Home Safety, Equipment & Modifications at Home

Small changes inside the home can significantly reduce the risk of falls, injuries, and loss of independence.

For many older Australians, the physical home environment becomes the main barrier to staying safely at home. Uneven flooring, poor lighting, narrow bathrooms, or lack of support rails can quickly turn minor mobility issues into serious risks.

Home safety and equipment services focus on identifying hazards and recommending practical, appropriate modifications.

When Is a Home Safety Assessment Appropriate?

You may benefit from a home safety assessment if:

  • You have experienced a fall

  • You feel unsteady walking around the house

  • You struggle getting in or out of the shower

  • Stairs feel unsafe

  • You rely on furniture for support

  • Your family has raised safety concerns

Often, small modifications prevent major incidents.

How Does the Assessment Process Work?

An occupational therapist typically:

  1. Visits your home

  2. Observes mobility and daily routines

  3. Identifies risk areas

  4. Recommends appropriate modifications or equipment

  5. Documents recommendations within your care plan

The aim is to create a safe environment tailored to your individual needs.

Stairlift On Stairs

Is It Covered by Support at Home?

Coverage depends on the service type.

  • Occupational therapy assessments are usually classified as Clinical services (0% contribution).

  • Approved assistive equipment and minor modifications may be funded if directly linked to assessed needs.

Funding approval depends on:

  • Your support plan

  • Clinical recommendation

  • Available allocation within your funding tier

Is It Covered by CHSP?

CHSP may fund minor home modifications and basic equipment depending on:

  • Regional availability

  • Assessment outcome

  • Funding allocation

However, major structural changes are generally not covered under CHSP.

What Is Not Usually Covered?

Home safety funding generally does not cover:

  • Major renovations

  • Full bathroom remodels

  • Cosmetic upgrades

  • Non-essential lifestyle improvements

  • Property value upgrades

All modifications must directly support safety or function.

Find Home Safety & Equipment Providers in Victoria

Explore local providers offering home assessments, assistive equipment, and modification services below.

Frequently asked questions

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