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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.
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.
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!
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.
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
CONSUMER SUCCESS TESTIMONIALS:
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.
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
