MANY older Australians and people with disabilities need to make modifications to their homes to allow them to remain independent and safe for longer. But deciding on best modifications for your needs can be difficult, and the cost can be prohibitive.
Now researchers from the University of NSW have developed an app to help people make decisions around choosing and buying the five most common home modifications including grab rails and handheld showers.
The DIYmodify app is funded by the Department of Family and Community Services and links directly to the university's HMinfo Clearinghouse website, which provides the most up-to-date information and research on home modifications.
"Overwhelmingly people want to stay in their own homes," said Catherine Bridge from UNSW. "Our aim is to keep people better informed, safer and able to stay in their own homes for longer."
UNSW research shows more than 15,000 do-it-yourself home modifications are undertaken in NSW each year by older people and those with disability.
Associate Professor Bridge said the app was designed with input from seniors, people with disabilities and non-English speakers.
"We're giving people information at the time they need it, presented in a way that is understandable for them," she said.
"For example, many people don't know that they can add a ramp to their shower to raise its level and it will only cost them $100 rather than $2000."
App co-designer and Physical Disability Council of NSW president Peter Simpson said employing tradespeople to install home modifications wasn't always financially viable.
"The app takes you through how to select products and how to install them in an easy step-by-step way that allows users to choose the cheapest options that suit them best," he said.
"I have no doubt this app is going to help a lot of people."
The app is free and available for both iPhone/iPad and Android devices.
Download HERE
