Home Accessibility Modifications: Enhancing Safety and Independence with BC RAHA
By Functional Therapy & Wellness Inc. | Coquitlam-Based Occupational Therapy Team
Returning home after an injury should be a milestone—not a setback. But without the proper setup, homes can become barriers to recovery rather than supports. That’s why Functional Therapy & Wellness Inc. provides comprehensive home accessibility assessments and modification planning to ensure injured individuals can live safely, independently, and with dignity.
What Are Home Accessibility Modifications?
Home modifications are custom changes to the living environment designed to reduce risk, enhance function, and support independence. These often include:
Installing grab bars or railings
Adjusting bathroom setups (e.g., tub transfer benches, raised toilet seats)
Removing tripping hazards
Modifying entrances, stairs, or hallways
Recommending adaptive equipment (e.g., stair lifts, ramps)
Introducing the BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA)
The BC RAHA program offers financial assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income households to complete home adaptations that support accessibility and promote continued safe and independent living. Homeowners and tenants may qualify for rebates of up to $20,000. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having a permanent disability or loss of ability, and the adaptations must relate directly to the disability or ability loss. An assessment from an Occupational Therapist (OT), Physical Therapist (PT), or other medical professional may be required to support the application.
When Are They Needed?
Home modifications are essential when a client:
Has mobility limitations or balance issues
Is returning from hospital or rehab with new functional needs
Uses mobility aids (e.g., walker, wheelchair)
Is at high risk of falls
Our occupational therapists conduct in-home or virtual assessments and provide professional reports outlining necessary changes and cost-effective solutions.
Why It Matters
Investing in home safety upfront leads to:
Fewer hospital readmissions
Faster recovery timelines
Reduced long-term care costs
Improved client satisfaction and quality of life
We collaborate with contractors, case managers, and insurers to ensure all recommendations meet functional, safety, and funding requirements.
🏠 Refer your client for a Home Accessibility Assessment. We provide quick turnarounds and detailed documentation for insurers, private payees, and legal representatives.
