Making Your Home Work for Your Child: Home Modification Resources in Indiana
Navigating parenthood is challenging and when your child has special needs, it can be downright overwhelming. One significant aspect to consider is making your home a safe and accessible environment for your child to thrive. Home modifications can significantly improve your child's quality of life and independence. Let’s explore the resources available to Indiana families.
Understanding Home Modifications
Home modifications are changes made to a home to make it safe and accessible for individuals with disabilities. Home modifications can range from simple adjustments like installing grab bars and raised toilet seats, to more complex renovations such as wheelchair ramps and widened doorways. With so many modifications available, it can be difficult to know which ones are best for your family. Home modification specialists at Koremen can help you understand how different modifications will support your child, and what possible funding options may be available.
Home Modification Resources in Indiana
1. Medicaid Waiver Programs: There are agencies and organizations across Indiana that exist to help individuals and their care givers access information and resources related to Medicaid waivers. Here are some of the specific waivers that allow for home modifications.
Health and Wellness Waiver: This waiver is aimed at supporting those individuals that are 59 years and younger with complex medical needs.
Pathways for Aging Waiver: This is for Medicaid eligible seniors 60 and older to support their independence living at home.
Community Integration and Habilitation (CIH) Waiver: This program can cover home modifications if they are necessary for the individual to live safely in their home.
Family Supports Waiver: This waiver provides support services to families caring for children with disabilities, which may include home modifications.
Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver: This waiver directly supports individuals that have had a traumatic brain injury and require specific medical care for that injury.
2. Bureau of Disability Services: BDS provides an array of services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities under Medicaid.
3. Vocational Rehabilitation Services: If your child is 14-22 years of age, and has a vocational goal, the Indiana Division of Rehabilitation may be able to provide funding for home modifications that support their independence and employment.
4. Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): These organizations offer a wealth of resources, including information on home modifications and potential funding sources. They are one of the primary contacts for people using the Health and Wellness waiver through Medicaid. Each region of Indiana has a local AAA office associated to the county you reside.
5. Local Independent Living Centers: These centers often offer information and referrals for home modifications and can assist with the application process for funding.
Tips for Navigating the Process
Assess your home’s needs: Identify specific areas where your home is a barrier and a change would be beneficial. Want some help? Koremen can assist you in identifying home modifications to support you and your child. Our staff are CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists) certified and experienced in creating safe, comfortable and usable spaces. With over 10 years of experience in performing evaluations. We are experts at ensuring your home meets the needs of you, your child, and your family.
Research funding options: Explore different programs, such as the Medicaid waivers above, and eligibility requirements.
Consult with professionals: Seek advice from occupational therapists, certified aging-in-place specialists, architects, or contractors specializing in accessible design.
Network with other families: Connect with parents who have gone through the home modification process for valuable insights. There are many Facebook groups and pages that provide valuable advice. Joining a group in your region, county, or city can be helpful in identifying local resources.
Inform your waiver case manager: Let your case manager know you’re ready to start the process of making your home safe and accessible. If you don’t have a waiver case manager, call Koremen (317-218-3997) and we will be ready to guide you through the process.
Remember, every home is different, and each child is unique. What works for one family may not work for yours. By taking proactive steps and exploring available resources, you can create a home environment that supports your child’s growth. We hope you’ll choose Koremen to support you as you identify how to meet your child’s specific needs at home.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and is based on available data at the time of posting. For up-to-date information and professional guidance specific to your situation, please contact Koremen or your service organization directly.
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