Question: I am a person with physical disabilities and I’m starting to have trouble being independent in my home. What options are available to me?
Answer: There are many options in Brown County that can help promote your independence ranging from in-home care to adaptive equipment to home modifications. Let’s highlight a couple of these options for your consideration.
Many local durable home medical supply stores provide adaptive medical equipment and home modification services, such as grab bar installation, stair lift/ramp assessments, and mobility products. ADRC of Brown County has a full listing of available durable home medical providers in the area. Many of these items may be partially or fully covered by your insurance. Ask your doctor for a written prescription for the items you need and take the prescription to any of the local durable home medical providers who can help you fill the prescription and let you know the cost.
If you don’t need an item long-term, many stores offer the option to rent items monthly. If privately paying for equipment is a hardship, ADRC can discuss local loan closet options to borrow equipment, such as Options for Independent Living.
If you aren’t sure what home modifications you may need to make your home more accessible, Options for Independent living offers an Accessibility Assessment. This service provides an in-depth evaluation of specific barriers in an individual’s home and/or vehicle. One of their specialists will provide specific recommendations to remove the barriers and improve accessibility for maximum independence.
This service can also provide a review of residential construction plans to improve accessibility, incorporate features consistent with universal design, visitability, and to age in place.
Contact Options for Independent Living directly at (920) 490-0500. You can also call ADRC at (920) 448-4300 and ask to speak with an Information and Assistance Specialist to learn more about options that can help you live as independently as possible.
