The aging network and the home modification needs of elders

Abstract

A national survey of the aging network – State Units on Aging (n = 42) and Area Agencies on Aging (n = 342) – was conducted to examine their activities to address the assistive technology (AT) and home modifications (HM) needs of older adults. The study contrasts the awareness of and importance placed on AT/HM programs and services by state and local administrators of aging agencies; describes interagency activities; identifies challenges in service delivery; and discusses several innovative service models. These findings indicate that although state-level collaboration between the aging network and the rehabilitation system is on the rise, there has been little measurable impact on service delivery at the local level where the needs of elders with disabilities are addressed.