As one gets older, getting around can become a little more challenging. One gets tired more easily; maybe one’s back is painful, or the knees or hips have become troublesome. Keeping things organized in your home environment can give you greater physical security and peace of mind. This is what a home safety assessment focuses on.
What is a Home Safety Assessment?
A home safety assessment reviews your living space and daily habits to find ways to improve the environment and reduce potential hazards. A licensed healthcare professional or medical social worker performs these assessments.
Does Medicare Cover a Home Safety Assessment?
Yes, if you have specific types of Medicare coverage. A home safety assessment can be covered for individuals with Medicare Part B, or Medicare Advantage plans when referred by a medical professional for a home safety assessment. You must have been enrolled in Medicare Part B for at least 12 months to be eligible. Many Medicare Advantage covers these assessments.
What To Expect During a Home Safety Assessment
A medical social worker will visit you to do the home safety inspection. Areas they will inspect to identify hazards will include the following:
- Kitchen
- Bathrooms
- Stairs and steps
- Bedrooms
- Patios
- Carpeting
- Electrical cords in the home
- Tripping hazards
- Overall fire safety
Locating and addressing potential hazards helps you enjoy living in the comfort of your home without risking your health and well-being.
What Could Be Corrected by a Home Safety Assessment?
Types of issues that could be addressed include:
- Repairing broken steps or worn or uneven carpets could be a tripping hazard.
- Removing unsecured rugs or securing them to the floor.
- Moving frequently used items to lower, easy-to-access cabinets.
- Keeping walking areas clear of clutter.
- Addressing slippery floors in bathrooms or showers.
- Installing shower grab bars, safety rails, or handrails where needed.
How Long Does a Home Safety Assessment Take?
Each home is different, but you can expect a home safety assessment to take about one hour. At the end of the inspection process, the medical professional will review their findings with you. The inspector will then work with you to develop a plan to address any safety issues in your home.
When Should I Get a Home Safety Assessment?
You and your family members or loved ones can decide when a home safety assessment is a good idea, or it will happen as part of your insurance coverage, but only with your consent. Some reasons older adults decide to have their homes reviewed include:
- To allow older adults to continue to live in the comfort of their homes.
- To update a home for individuals facing physical changes due to a medical condition.
- To help an individual recover more safely from a recent surgery.
- To assist a loved one experiencing a cognitive decline.
- To prevent another injury after a fall at home.
- To assess potential hazards when moving into a new home.
- To identify risks before a problem arises.
Live Comfortably: Increase Your Medicare Coverage
If you only have Medicare Part A, enrolling in Part B or a Medicare Advantage plan could open the door to many additional benefits, including home safety assessments. Contact one of our agents to schedule a one-on-one meeting today and to help yourself or a loved one stay comfortable and safe.