Home Safety Assessment and Modification Service

A pilot project undertaken by ‘We Care and Repair’ Bristol.

Project Aims:

This project aims to proactively reach out to older people living in their own homes by offering a home safety assessment and modification serviceto reduce their risk of avoidable falls.

This will initially be a pilot project offered to people registered under 5 GP practices; Bedminster Family Practice, Malago Surgery, Southville Surgery, Gaywood House Surgery and Wedmore Surgery. The project will be evaluated by an independent researcher with the aim of raising further funds to expand the service.

The Service Will:

  • Offer a free assessment by a qualified Occupational Therapist within the person’s own home environment.
  • Provide advice and signposting or onward referral as required.
  • Offer recommendations for home adaptations or modifications to reduce the person’s falls risk within their environment.
  • Implementrecommended hazard removal or home adaptation through ‘We Care and Repair’ services.

For example: fit rails,install ramps, level thresholds,remove trip hazards, support to “declutter”, provide equipment, complete handyperson work, organise larger repairs and adaptations, etc.

  • Provide a follow up telephone call or visit once the works are completed.

Funding:

The Dolphin Society have donated funds to cover some of the recommended works. Those who have the means to fund their own work will be encouraged to do so to allow the charitable funds to support those most in need.

Referral Criteria:

  • The person may have had one or more falls, be at risk of future falls, or have a fear of falling and are likely to benefit from a home environment assessment.
  • The person must be registered with Bedminster Family Practice, Malago Surgery, Southville Surgery, Gaywood House Surgery or Wedmore Surgery.
  • The person must own their own home or be privately renting (permission from the landlord may be required to carry out works).
  • The person must consent to a referral and want to engage with the service.


How to identify people to refer to the Home Safety Assessment and Modification Service

People at increased risk of falls are likely to be over 65 or to have a physical disability. There are a few questions you can ask to identify whether the person is at risk of falls.

Has the person had one or more falls in the last year?

Is their mobility worsening?

Do they have difficulty getting around the housesafely?

(E.g.getting up/ down stairs or walking around rooms)

Do they have difficulty completing dailyactivities safely?

(E.g. getting out of bed or using the bath or shower).

Are there trip hazards noticeable around the house?

(E.g. items in walkways, rugs or loose carpet, trailing wires).

If the answer to some or all of the above questions is yes, the person may be at risk of falls at home. They may benefit from an Occupational Therapy assessment in their home environment to identify ways of increasing their safety and reducing their risk of falls.

If the person agrees, send a referral to the Home Safety Assessment and Modification Service.