Specialized Programs & Services

Many individuals who have acquired a physical disability find it necessary to make home modifications to maximize their ability to function independently. Madonna employs a specially trained occupational therapist who works with craftspeople to make living spaces more accessible. They can offer recommendations or changes that will make your home more accessible. This generally includes a combination of minor construction and identification, as well as training in use of appropriate adaptive equipment. The ultimate goal of this service is to help individuals return to their home rather than to institutions.

• Who would benefit from a home assessment?

  Individuals who have experienced physical limitations as a result of a medical event, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, birth defect or orthopedic injury would benefit from a home assessment. Additionally, older individuals who are beginning to experience difficulty getting around inside their home, perhaps due to arthritis or generalized weakness, may benefit from an assessment. This service is currently available only to people who live within a two hour radius of Lincoln. This service is available to both inpatients and outpatients at the TherapyPlus Main Campus.

• What happens during the home assessment?

  Prior to the actual home assessment, Madonna's clinicians collect and review medical background information about the individual being served. This includes the type of disability and activity limitations, as well as what the individual served wants to accomplish.

  The clinician will conduct an assessment of the space inside and outside the home, taking measurements and digital photographs. These are necessary for determining specific equipment and remodeling plans. The photos also aid the therapy team to simulate the individual's home environment during therapy sessions as best as possible. The clinician may ask the person served to demonstrate how they access certain areas to further determine what barriers exist. Family or caregivers may also collect information (measurements, pictures) for the home assessment specialist to review and provide recommendations if an actual home assessment can not occur.

  The results of the assessment are discussed with the individual and her or his family or support system, as appropriate, and recommendations for equipment, training and/or remodeling provided.

  While Madonna will provide recommendations, as well as a list of qualified vendors, it is up to the individual and her or his family members to decide what they would like to do, and who should perform the work or assistive equipment.

  After the assessment is complete, the clinician will create a written report with recommendations. A copy of the report is provided to the individual and other clinicians providing direct care, so the information may be incorporated into treatment. Resources are also provided to the individual being served and her or his family or support system.