Home Modification - Aging Home Needs - Dayle McIntosh Center : Dayle McIntosh Center

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Pictured DMC Home Access Team: Esme standing by door holding clipboard taking measurement notes; Ivan in doorway with tape measure to review access width; Ana on knees in doorway side marking area with pen

Life can be unpredictable, and certain events like a sudden trip, fall, or injury, or the natural process of aging, can significantly impact an individual’s daily life and independence. At the Dayle McIntosh Center (DMC), we understand the challenges that such changes can bring, and we are committed to providing comprehensive support to those in need.

Home Access Team on ramp; Esme with clipboard; Ana with blue yard stick and Ivan holding tape measure outside of building

DMC has multiple program service areas which have a lot of crossover – from our Housing Services, Independent Living Skills and Personal Assistant Services, Deaf Services, Blind/Low-Vision Services and even the Peer Counseling we provide as well as working with our Community Living Advocates and Veterans. Home Modifications can turn up as a need for anyone at any time. We here at DMC take accessibility seriously as people with disabilities and older adults deserve to live the lives they choose. Access is a gateway toward gaining more independence and the freedom to live in one’s home comfortably, and safely when modifications are made to support the accessibility required.

Ana holding DMC’s Home Access flyer showing it to Ivan and Esme as Esme points to contact information QR Code as they all stand outside

Did you know we have a Home Access Flyer? Click this green button below!

One of the essential support services we offer is dedicated to Home Modification. We believe that a person’s home should be a place of comfort and safety, allowing them to continue living with as much autonomy as possible. However, when mobility or physical abilities are affected, simple tasks around the house can become challenging and potentially hazardous. Our team works closely with individuals to make necessary adjustments to their living spaces, ensuring that their homes become more accessible and functional.

Additionally, we strongly believe in the importance of fall prevention education. Falls can have severe consequences, particularly for older adults or those with mobility challenges. Therefore, we provide training and resources to help people learn practical techniques to reduce the risk of falls in their everyday lives.

WHAT IS THE ELIGIBILITY?

To qualify for these modifications, individuals must meet the criteria of being at risk of institutionalization, having new or existing disabilities, and/or experiencing recent falls or being at risk of falling in their home. Please note that the availability of these home modifications depends on funding availability at the time of request.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Home-Modifications can include:

Ramps
Grab-bars
Toilet seat risers
Pole supports, and more!

Pictured, Ivan using a screwdriver in bathroom to adjust PVC under sink

Pictured Left: bathroom Home Modification with metal handrail mounted next to toilet for accessibility; Pictured right: Close-up of main grey tile floor leading to Roll-In Shower. The image is a rolling shower with two grab bars, handrails, and a pony bench for the consumer to sit. Featured is a shower head extender. Material that was used for the shower walls is grey and white marble tile.

Ana installing grab bars around toilet for accessibility

Pictured, metal grab bar installed for easy front porch access on the left-side of the yellow-painted entrance to the home, and right white post ahead of the additional metal grab bar near the white screened front door. Pictured Right: Consumer shower modified with seat and two metal grab bars for entry and in-show stability

To learn more about Home Modification options tailored to your specific needs:

Please contact us at (714) 621-3300, where our team will readily direct you to the appropriate department.

: Wooden ramp with metal entry to brick front porch for accessibility; Right pictured is free-standing mounted accessibility grab bar in bathroom next to toilet.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO KNOW ABOUT FALLS IN THE HOME

Home Modification is designed to help people navigate areas of their home with grace and ease, providing security and safety grab bars for accessibility to avoid worry and anxiety at home.

It is very important to prevent falls as a safety measure – both before you get home modification and after, as all people are susceptible to falling. Falling can happen due to exhaustion, dehydration, medication side effects, low vision, or simply instability of joints and muscles. Falls are the main cause of serious injury. At DMC we believe information is power and educating consumers about fall prevention is important part of support just as much as the programs and services we offer.

Here are some additional resource links to provide additional information and educational support to consider:

From the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html

Fall Prevention Check List: https://blog.ohiohealth.com/fall-prevention-checklist/

Fall Prevention and Risk Reduction: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/hhsa/programs/ais/fall-prevention/Fall%20Prevention%20Pamphlet_2023_English.pdf

Infographic in blue and green. “Falls Are No Laughing Matter.” Graphic includes statistics 1 in 5 falls result in serious injury; 75% of falls happen at home; Preventative fall hazards which include clutter, staircases, the dark, things in high places, medication side effects and pride in knowing your limits.

Consumer Success Stories:

Escalating Safety and Access Improves Quality of Life

A 94-year-old consumer with Muscular Dystrophy and multiple health challenges was struggling to navigate his curved staircase, causing missed medical appointments and confining him to his upstairs bedroom.

After a Home Access Specialist completed a thorough assessment and coordinator with vendors, a stair lift was installed, giving him safe, independent access throughout his home.

His son shared that he now enjoys walks around the house and backyard, and is more talkative and cheerful. This story highlights how home modifications can restore independence, improve safety, and enhance quality of life.

Showered in Gratitude: Modifications = Access + Safety

A 64-year-old consumer with a spinal cord injury requested the removal of the shower door to enhance his safety and facilitate easier entry. He also requested the installation of a ramp, as he is unable to walk and has decreased strength in his legs, making the steps inside his home a potential fall risk.

The consumer and his daughter diligently submitted all necessary documents for home modification authorization approval, including the physician’s recommendation letter, notice of property, and all required intake forms.

The consumer’s daughter expressed their gratitude in an email, stating, “Thank you for your assistance throughout this entire process. The services provided by DMC has tremendously provided much needed safety support for my dad so that he may continue to function at home safely. We are truly grateful for this program.”

As a result of these modifications, the consumer can now safely enter the shower and navigate his home independently and with greater ease.

Modifications Improve Consumer’s Quality of Life

A 59-year-old consumer had not been able to safely access his bathroom or shower since 2019 due to narrow doorways and lack of grab bars. Home Access Specialist coordinated approvals, assessed his home, and worked with vendors to widen door frames and modify the shower for safe access.

After the modifications, the consumer expressed excitement about finally entering his bathroom and anticipates safely using the shower with his transfer chair. He shared that he never thought he would see this day and expressed deep gratitude for the support and collaboration throughout the process.

Safety = Consumer Confidence with Home Access

The Home Access Team assisted a consumer who recently had a stroke and was using a walker to get around his home.

The consumer requested a ramp with handrails to enter and exit his home. After receiving all appropriate documentation and going through the approval process, the consumer was able to get the module ramp installed.

The consumer is happy with the home modification and stated he feels safe at home.

Home Modifications Create Consumer Safety and Mobility Confidence

After a referral was received requesting grab bars and ramps, a Housing Access Specialist connected with a 43-year-old consumer living with rheumatoid arthritis and limited mobility.

Due to her condition, navigating steps and maintaining balance in the bathroom posed serious safety risks, putting her at high risk of falls.

With the installation of a grab bar near the shower and ramps at the home’s entrance and patio, the consumer is now able to move through her home more safely and independently.

These modifications significantly reduced fall risks and improved her ability to remain safely housed.

Pictured: Before photo of standard shower with door on the left has a glass door near the toilet. After Modification photo to the right features ease-of-access walk-in-shower with grab bars from the side and inside the shower with a curtain for accessibility.

On behalf of my mom & my family, I would like to say thank you for your help & support throughout the process of having this chair install for my mom’s needs.

Once again, many thanks to Dayle Mcintosh Center & Ms. Ana for your support & commitment.”

Ngoc Tuyet Lương & Quynh Giao Bui

DMC Frequently Asked Questions and answers masthead graphic in blue text with multicolored question marks inside speech bubbles on lower left corner, DMC Blue logo in center and multicolored exclamation marks lower right corner. Image has blue border.

Consumer Question: How long does the process to complete a home modification usually take?

DMC Program Answer: This process usually takes about three months, but this process can be very on case-by-case bases and might extend over the three months.

Consumer Question: Is there a cost for home modification services?

DMC Program Answer: DMC Program Answer: No, there is not a cost if the modifications stay within the maximum lifetime budget provided by our funder. However, there are circumstances where the cost may go over, which will require the difference to be covered through a donation or other resource and this would be communicated to you by our Home Access Team.

Consumer Question: How would I know if I am eligible?

DMC Program Answer: To be eligible for Home Access services, you must be a CalOptima member, at risk of institutionalization, experiencing recent falls or at risk of falling in the home, and have new or existing disabilities.

DMC also has some limited funding for Home Modifications to people with disabilities and older adults who live in the City of Laguna Niguel.

Consumer Question: What does it mean to be “at risk of institutionalization?”

DMC Program Answer: DMC Program Answer: Being at risk of institutionalization can occur if an individual’s current home environment is no longer safe or accessible enough for them to live independently. If they cannot safely enter/exit their home or move around their living space, they are at a higher risk of needing to move into a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home, which is considered an institution.

Consumer Question: What types of modifications can be covered?

DMC Program Answer: DMC’s Home Access Program can provide ramps, accessible bathroom modifications, pole support, grab bars, chair or stairlifts, doorway widening, and over all minor repairs to reduce the risk of institutionalization and falls in the home.

Please note, durable medical equipment (DME) is not covered through DMC’s Home Modification services, but you are able to speak to your physician which can make a request through your insurance to provide the durable medical equipment needed. If your request is denied you can reach back out to DMC’s Recycle Reuse program which offers available durable medical equipment which we receive via donations.

Collage showing different types of accessibility modification options. Top left: Temporary ramp; Top Right full shower/bathroom modification; Lower left: roll-in shower; bottom right Kitchen counter accessibility to reach sink and faucet.

Additional Notes/Resources

Section 504 Home Repair Program: This provides loans or grants to very-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. To qualify you must be the homeowner and occupy the house, be unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere, have a household income that does not exceed the very low limit set by the county, and be 62+ years old.

Email: sm.rd.ca.sfhdirect@usda.gov

State office: USDA Rural Development
Attn: Single Family Housing
430 G St, Agency 4169
Davis, CA 95616

Community Action Partnership OC (CAP OC): They provide residential repairs, home modification, and fall prevention. Please contact them directly to verify eligibility.

Phone:(714) 897-6670

Habitat for Humanity: Their Hand-Up Home Repair Program serves Veterans in need of home repairs.

Phone: (714)434-6200 ext. 233

Email: Homerepair@habitatoc.org

Rebuild Together: Their Safe at Home Program that helps older adults remain safe and independent in their home. Can install Grab Bars, Handrails, Ramps, Thresholds, Door Widening, Modified Tubs and Showers, Raised Toilets and more. Please note, the individual must own their own home. This excludes mobile homes, townhomes or condos.

Location: Long Beach: 3515 Linden Ave Suite 44, Long Beach, Ca 90807

Phone: (562)490-3802

http://www.rebuildingtogetherlongbeach.org/

San Diego: 2013 Franklin Ave, San Diego Ca, 92113

Phone: (619)231-7873

http://www.rebuildingtogethersd.org

Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC): They serve individuals with developmental disabilities and provide information on funding resources for home modifications, including grants which may cover partial or full costs. Please contact them directly verify eligibility and options.

Phone:(714)796-5100

https://www.rcocdd.com/family-support/resources-and-support/home-remodeling/

The Self-Sufficiency Grant Modest needs.org– Offers support to families who need assistance but do not qualify as being low income per the traditional incomes standards.

https://www.modestneeds.org/for-applicants/grants-types-self-sufficiency.asp

City of Anaheim: Their Residential Rehabilitation Program is not currently accepting any applications, however they have developed a wait list to notify interested homeowners in the City of Anaheim of when the program re-opens.

Phone: (714)765-4300

https://www.anaheim.net/5192/Residential-Rehabilitation-Program

City of Costa Mesa: Their Home Grant Program is designed to assist qualified Costa Mesa property owners to improve single family and home homes properties. Improvements include safety code items such as plumbing, electrical, heating, roofing, etc. Grants are available for both single family and mobile home property owners.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Costa Mesa must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Phone: (714)754-4870

Residential Rehabilitation Programs | City of Costa Mesa

City of Garden Grove: They have funding to repair exterior painting, replace windows, electrical, plumbing, heating (HVAC), install wheelchair ramps, grab bars, walk-in showers and other home modifications for low-income individuals in the City of Garden Grove.

Contact Person: Dana Yang

Phone: (714)741-5131

Email: danay@ggcity.org

https://ggcity.org/neighborhood-improvement/home-repair-program

City of Huntington Beach: Their loan and grant program is for individuals who qualify for a low-interest home improvement loan or grant. The city can lend up to $75,000 for loans on single family homes and $25,000 for mobile homes.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Huntington Beach must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Phone: (562)533-099

https://huntingtonbeachca.gov/departments/community_development/affordable_housing/residential_rehabilitation_program.php

City of Laguna Beach: Their Home Repair Program provides up to $5,000 in financial assistance for seniors age 60 and older to address essential home safety and maintenance needs, including installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, minor plumbing repairs such as faucets and toilets, accessibility improvements like ramps, handrails, and grab bars, minor electrical work involving light switches and light fixtures, limited mold and lead remediation, and minor flooring modifications to reduce tripping hazards.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Laguna Beach must call the city for more information and eligibility details.

Phone: (949)464-6645

https://thesusiq.org/home-repair-program/

City of Newport Beach: Their Senior Home Assistance Repair Program is for low-income seniors age 60 and older who live in the home and provides home repairs through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. The city also offers a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Loan Program that allows residents to borrow medical equipment at no cost for up to one month, with additional details available on the city’s website.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Newport Beach must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Phone: (949)644-3244

https://www.newportbeachca.gov/government/departments/recreation-senior-services/senior-services-oasis-senior-center/support-services

City of Placentia: Through its Neighborhood Services Division, accepts applications for the Housing Rehabilitation Program, which provides grant funding to low-income homeowners for exterior home repairs and accessibility improvements, including roof repair or replacement, ADA ramps and other accessibility modifications, exterior access improvements, exterior painting, and safety features to support elderly and physically disabled residents, among other eligible improvements.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Placentia must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Phone: (714)993-8117

https://www.placentia.org/155/Housing-Rehabilitation-Program#:~:text=The%20Housing%20Rehabilitation%20Program%20is,low%20and%20moderate%20income%20residents.

City of Rancho Santa Margarita: Their Home Modification Program provides accessibility improvements such as wheelchair ramps, handrails, door widening, toilet seat risers, and grab bars.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Rancho Santa Margarita must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Email: Elizabeth@HabitatOC.org.

Phone: (714)434-6200

https://habitatoc.org/accessibility-modifications-inquiry/

City of Santa Ana: They provide home repairs and modifications for homeowners in the city of Santa Ana. Can Receive a grant for repairs that need to be made to their home. Must be considered low income to qualify. Must call for more information and to apply.

Please note, interested residents of the City of Santa Ana must contact the city directly for more information about eligibility and the types of modifications available.

Phone: (714)667-2219

https://www.santa-ana.org/community-development-block-grant/#/answer-list-legend

City of Tustin: In partnership with Habitat for Humanity, offers a Home Repair and Accessibility Grant Program that provides up to $15,000 for eligible homeowners to complete critical repairs and modifications, including plumbing, heating, electrical work, window replacement, roofing, painting, ADA modifications, and lead or asbestos remediation. Applicants must be moderate- to low-income Tustin homeowners who are either age 62 or older, have a disability, or are veterans.

*Please note, the application window is currently closed and will reopen on July 1, 2026.

Email: Homerepair@habitatoc.org

Phone: (714)434-6200 ext. 233

https://www.tustinca.org/1509/Home-Repair-Program#:~:text=Program%20Overview,Lead%2Dbased%20Paint/Asbestos%20Abatement

Pictured Team DMC Staff standing in group photo smiling with On the Mend Team at live event. Background features grab bar and home modification accessibility options mounted on wall.