The True Value of Home Accessibility and Proactive Safety

14/02/2025 53 min

Listen "The True Value of Home Accessibility and Proactive Safety"

Episode Synopsis

Home accessibility is about more than just modifications—it’s about preserving dignity, independence, and safety. In this episode, we sit down with Justin Oakley, founder of Oakley Home Access, to explore the critical role of home modifications in aging in place and fall prevention.Justin shares his journey from occupational therapist to entrepreneur and how he built a business dedicated to making homes safer and more accessible. We discuss why proactive home accessibility saves money and lives, common misconceptions about insurance coverage for modifications, and how occupational therapists and contractors can work together to create safer environments. Justin also breaks down the cost difference between proactive and reactive modifications, explaining how early interventions can prevent costly hospitalizations and improve long-term outcomes.A major part of the conversation centers around funding opportunities for home modifications and the challenges in getting insurance and Medicare to cover accessibility solutions. Justin highlights how individuals and organizations can push for better funding and policy changes and why advocacy is essential to making accessibility a standard feature in homes. He also shares practical steps families and caregivers can take to start the conversation about home modifications before a crisis happens.Resources & Links:Find more about Oakley Home Access at https://www.oakleyhomeaccess.comFind Caregiver Training at https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.comFind Care Equipment Solutions at https://www.asksamie.comFollow Care Lab for more episodes at https://www.carelabpodcast.com