Episode 21: Insight for Aging Services Professionals: The Role of Clinical Home Modifications
Insight for Aging Services Professionals: The Role of Clinical Home Modifications
As the U.S. population ages, the prevalence of disability and functional limitations and the demand for long-term services and supports (LTSS) will increase. In fact, according to a report from the University of Michigan, 88% of older adults ages 50 to 80 feel it’s important to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Unfortunately, many homes are not designed to safely age in place, especially for those living with chronic conditions or mobility impairments that impact activities of daily living.
A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) estimates that nearly 6 million people receive Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) for assistance with activities of daily living (such as eating, bathing, and dressing) and instrumental activities of daily living (such as preparing meals, managing medication, and housekeeping). LTSS are provided to individuals who need such services due to aging, chronic illness, or disability and may be provided in institutional settings such as nursing facilities (1.6 million people) or in people’s homes and communities (4.2 million people).
Join us as we discuss the important role of clinical home modifications and how they enhance the quality of life for seniors, promote independence, and contribute to overall well-being. We'll also explore best practices, innovative approaches, and the latest trends in this vital aspect of care. Listen in for expert insights and practical tips to elevate your practice in serving aging populations.
Click to listen to this episode:
Tune in for insights and resources from Katy Dodd, Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), Principal & VP of Business Development, LifewiseCHM
About Katy:
Katy Dodd is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) with LifewiseCHM, a leading home modification benefit manager. As a residential renovation company specializing in accessibility, LifewiseCHM relies on Katy to engage with payors who are challenged with finding quality providers to keep their members safe at home and out of institutional care. She is the team lead in solidifying partnerships with managed care organizations throughout the country, with her main focus on contract negotiation, account management, marketing, and branding.
Katy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Economics from Rockhurst University and currently serves on the LifewiseCHM Advisory Board to provide recommendations for strategic business development. She earned her Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation in 2010, served as an Executive Board Member with the Case Management Society of America in Kansas City, and as a council member on the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), First Suburbs Coalition. Most recently, Katy served as the Treasurer for a local non-profit, The Grooming Project.
Episode Notes:
- Learn more about clinical home modifications and how they support older adults and people with disabilities live more safely and independently at home
- Hear insights as to what is fueling the demand for clinical home modifications
- Learn more about coverage for clinical home modifications under the provision of Home- and Community-Based Services and the long-term services and supports (LTSS) model
- Considerations for Aging Services Professionals for supporting their clients living as safely and independently as possible at home
Episode Resources:
- Fall Risk Management (ComForCare)
- Reducing Your Risk for Falls Fact Sheet (ComForCare)
- Who Pays for Long-Term Services and Supports? (congress.gov)
- LTSS Models (CMS.gov)
- Aging in Place: Tips on Making Home Safe and Accessible
- Rebuilding Together Safe at Home
- Older Adults’ Preparedness to Age in Place – University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging
- Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home – National Institute on Aging
- Toth M, Palmer L, Bercaw L, Voltmer H, Karon S. Trends in the Use of Residential Settings Among Older Adults. The Journals of Gerontology. 2022;77(2):424-428.
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