Aging in Place & Home Accessibility

GroupLayout: Aging in Place & Home Accessibility 🏡♿️

Course Headline: Occupational Therapy Capstone Project

Instructor Introduction: Hey there! My name is Lauren Hansen, and I'm a passionate 3rd year Occupational Therapy student at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. I've dedicated my capstone project to understanding the nuances of Aging in Place and the critical role of home accessibility.

Course Description:

Welcome to a transformative learning journey that intertwines theory with real-world applications. In this course, you will embark on an exploration of how occupational therapists can facilitate the aging process in place, ensuring safety, independence, and comfort within the familiar surroundings of one's home. 🧓✨

Key Topics Covered:

1. Needs Assessment & Literature Review:

   • The importance of aging in place for individuals and society.
   • An overview of the challenges and opportunities in home accessibility.
   • The impact of home modifications on quality of life for older adults.

2. Occupational Therapy's Role:

   • How OTs can assess and plan for aging in place.
   • Strategies to promote independence and functional living.

3. Habitat for Humanity & Aging at Home Program:

   • Introduction to Habitat for Humanity's mission and vision.
   • A deep dive into the Aging at Home Program and its significance.

4. Capstone Project Highlights:

   • A comprehensive guide to home modifications.
   • Detailed accessible home layout design.
   • Insights on home modifications for individuals with sensory processing disorders.
   • My journey through the Aging in Place Specialists Certification (CAPS).

5. Practical Application:

   • Real-life examples and case studies from my fieldwork.
   • Key takeaways and lessons learned during the 14-week capstone experience.

What You Will Gain:

• A thorough understanding of how to optimize living spaces for aging adults.
• Knowledge of the legal and ethical considerations in home accessibility.
• Practical skills to assess and recommend modifications for safety, accessibility, and independence.
• Insight into the role of occupational therapists in enabling clients to age in place with dignity.

Who This Course Is For:

• Occupational Therapy students and professionals looking to specialize in aging in place and home accessibility.
• Construction workers, architects, and designers interested in creating accessible living spaces.
• Families and caregivers of elderly individuals seeking ways to modify their homes for better living conditions.

Join Me on This Journey:

Let's uncover the intricacies of aging in place and the transformative power of home accessibility together. My capstone project is just the beginning – it's a blueprint for creating inclusive, accessible, and safe environments for all ages and abilities. 🌟

I invite you to dive into this course and emerge with a new perspective on how we can enhance lives through thoughtful design and occupational therapy. Let's make aging in place a reality that is not only achievable but also enriching!

Conclusion:

This course is more than just an academic exercise; it's a practical guide to making a tangible difference in the lives of older adults. I am excited to share my journey with you and hope that together, we can change the way society views aging and home living.

Enroll now and join me on this rewarding path towards empowerment through accessibility! 🎓👍