Abstract:

Occupational therapists knowledge of the field of home modifications is one of the major tools used in the resettlement and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities. This knowledge is based on analysis of occupational task and role dysfunctions, building fabric, equipment, furniture, fittings and government regulations. Regulations or standards are not unique to occupational therapy but serve as the basis for the design of all new public buildings. Although not mandatory in existing buildings or private homes they still serve to underpin therapists' clinical reasoning when any form of major environmental modification tasks are to be undertaken. The aim of this paper is to examine standards and accessibility literature with a view to identification of anomalies between standards developed in Australia, America and the United Kingdom. The results are a step towards understanding what are the critical factors in enabling independence for persons with disabilities. The author concludes that occupational therapists practising in this domain can improve the scientific basis for their clinical decisions by exploring anomalies. Application of knowledge in clinical practice is an essential ingredient in developing the art of reasoning about building modifications.