The Home Modification Process
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Why do we do Home Modifications?
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As more adults grow older, many want to remain in the homes they love rather than move to a care facility. Home modifications make this possible by supporting aging in place — the ability to live safely and comfortably at home for as long as possible.
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An AARP study found that more than 80% of people over age 50
want to stay in their own homes as they age
Home modifications also support people of all ages who live with health conditions, mobility challenges, sensory impairments, or cognitive disorders. By improving safety, accessibility, and ease of movement, these modifications help individuals complete everyday tasks, maintain independence, and enhance overall well-being.
Simply put:
home modifications make homes safer, more accessible,
and better suited for the people who live in them.​​
​The Difference Between Home Modifications vs. Home Repairs
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There is an important difference between repairs and modifications:
​​Home Repairs
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Fix something that is broken or worn out
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Restore function, but may not improve usability or safety​
​Home Modications
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Adapt living spaces to improve safety, accessibility, and independence
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Tailored to the resident’s needs and daily activities
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May include evaluating needs, implementing solutions, and reviewing outcomes
What modifications can include:
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Installing safer fixtures or hardware
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Adding assistive equipment or accessibility features
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Adjusting layout, lighting, or flooring for safer movement
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Using low- or high-tech tools and universal design solutions
Examples:
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Replacing a faulty faucet with a temperature-limiting lever handle
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Installing a securely mounted handrail
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Securing loose rugs or cords
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Adding non-slip bath mats and brighter lighting
Even small, low-cost changes can make a home safer and easier to navigate
benefiting residents, caregivers, and visitors alike
What is a Home Assessment?
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Once an application is received and approved, a home assessment is completed by a RTFV staff member certified in home modifications. A home modification assessment is a process to evaluate the home environment for areas that might pose problems to the resident and then use that information to make recommendations to improve the resident's occupational performance. Here at Rebuilding Together Fox Valley, we utilize the"Health and Safety 25 Point Checklist" developed by HUD and the National Center for Healthy Housing.​
