Home modifications and repurposing: perspectives on the accessibility, affordability, and attractiveness

Abstract

Purpose

Society has progressed in universal design guidelines and assistive devices for individuals with disabilities yet challenges due to affordability and attractiveness concerns remain to incorporate them into existing residences. Repurposing (i.e., replacing or adapting problematic fixtures or spaces, with others not originally intended for that purpose) may be the action to address the concerns of consumers. The purpose of this study was to elicit information on problems and solutions regarding home modifications and identify ways that consumers and professionals implement repurposing, that residents deemed accessible, affordable, and attractive.

Methods

This convergent parallel design study consisted of focus groups who rated images of repurposed spaces. The focus groups included consumers with functional mobility and visual limitations (n = 8); and professionals who devised or recommended home modifications (n = 8). Participants reviewed three images of home modification solutions and completed a Likert-scale rating based on accessibility and attractiveness.

Results

Focus group data indicated that high contrast, heights of fixtures, doors, and flooring – all pose threats to accessibility in the home. Consumers placed more value on attractiveness than professionals. Participants were aware and receptive to repurposing as a home modification technique but focused their discussion on adaptations.

Conclusion

Overall, adoption and implementation of home modifications promote accessibility, but professionals need to consider individualized needs and preferences, before suggesting modifications.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• Repurposing existing spaces, features, and fixtures can serve as a method of home modification.

• Consumer home modification recommendations are perceived to be more effective when collaboratively and individually developed with professionals.

• Data gathered through focus groups can be valuable for informing practice and research in home modifications.

Keywords:

• Activities of daily living
• environment
• focus groups
• aging in place
• home modifications

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (H 21672 CA).