Home Modifications for Ageing in Place
Home modifications for elderly Australians ageing in place: rails, ramps and bathroom changes, plus how the AT-HM Scheme funds them under Support at Home.
Why home modifications matter
Common modifications
Assistive technology alongside modifications
The AT-HM Scheme under Support at Home
How to access the funding
Other pathways to consider
Frequently asked questions
What home modifications help older people stay at home?
Common changes include grab rails and handrails, ramps, walk-in showers with a seat and raised toilets, better lighting, non-slip flooring, lever taps and handles, and stair aids. The right mix depends on how the person moves around their home.
How are home modifications funded in aged care?
Under Support at Home, the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme funds equipment and modifications as a separate pool alongside your quarterly budget, organised into tiers matched to what you need. Entry-level CHSP can fund minor modifications.
Do I need a separate application for the AT-HM Scheme?
No. Assessment happens through the standard aged care assessment. If the assessor finds you would benefit, they approve an appropriate funding tier and include it in your Notice of Decision. Higher-cost work usually involves an occupational therapist.
Who should advise on modifications?
An occupational therapist is ideal, because they assess how the person actually moves around their home and recommend the right combination of assistive technology and modifications. This ensures the changes are safe, suitable and genuinely useful.