Abstract:

Elderly people tend to live in older housing. Modifications can have an impact on both their psychological and emotional wellbeing - due to improved or increased control over daily activities - and physical health. This chapter discusses the experience of several community-based services that offer home repair, maintenance and modification services - including the importance of community organisations in generating funds and providing an operating surplus. Challenges are faced in getting people to do the work necessary to provide modifications, while demand for modifications is high. The chapter discusses how the agencies met the challenges that faced them with regard to service provision of both health and home modifications services - including defining and reaching a target market through advertising. The chapter discusses the direct costs (personnel, material and travel costs) and indirect costs (overhead expenses - including profit margins) relative to home repair businesses. Also considered are the Management Information Systems required for a home maintenance program, including pricing, billing and accounts recievable and payable, cost control and productivity monitoring and any outstanding jobs. The administrative needs of a program are considered, with management and supervision and direct staffing discussed. The external factors that impact the agencies prospects for success are noted, including the impact of the local economy on labour hire, competition provided by other agencies, and state and local regulations that impact business costs. It is deemed important that the service providers have an inclusive and positive attitude to service provision to their customers. It is concluded that a lack of home modifications and maintenance service providers exist, and the chapter drives for a model of service provision that is only a social services venture, but which also functions from a business and investment perspective.