AT & Home Modification/ Living in Place

After reading and going through the instructional online unit about the topic of assistive technology, I learned some things that I did not know before. This included the different categories of assistive technology, which included low, medium and high tech. I always thought that AT was just one whole category, but it makes sense to break it down like that. Also, I learned that there is a process to making a decision for assistive technology. There needs to be consideration of strengths and weaknesses, trials with the different materials, and implementation by issuing and training the AT. It is awesome to know that OT practitioners have the opportunity to specialize in this type of practice, as well as getting to consult, be involved in creating and developing, and have such a huge part in helping clients reach their full potential and to function independently.
As for the home modification and living in place podcast, this is an emerging area of practice and something I have been interested in because I believe home needs to feel like home even if someone has a disability. When living in place, everyone wants to feel safe, have accessibility, and feel comfortable and this is when an OT practitioner along with a team steps in to help. The podcast kept emphasizing the importance of an interdisciplinary team that involves an OT practitioner, construction, interior design, home inspectors, and so on. Also, the people speaking in this podcast were from the Living in Place Institute and discussed how their approach is for all homes and individuals. Also, they want there to be a sense of personal, unique and customized way of setting up a home or discussing certain types of adaptive equipment to the client. Some of the common items that are used within home modification are elevated toilets, grab bars, shower bench, two-hand rails, going away from a standard shower and bath tub, etc. Something else they mentioned that people can do to ensure a better living space is to remove throw rugs, have LED lights, detectors, first aid kit, and even electronic modifications (which is up and rising) like Alexa and Google Echo or Google Home are very beneficial and helpful, as well. It is important as OTs that we stay up-to-date with this emerging area of practice because the medical and health professional world is constantly changing and we want the best for our clients.