ABSTRACT
Home modifications can assist people to remain in their homes by increasing their ability to complete functional tasks independently. As people age, naturally occurring physical changes affect their ability to interact effectively with their home environment. In order to maintain their independence in the community, older adults must interact effectively with their home environments. If older adults are interested in maintaining their independence in the face of diminishing physical capabilities, they must often make modifications to their environment. Many modifications can be made to maintain older adults' independence, but one essential activity is the use of the telephone, along with shopping, managing money, and doing laundry. The telephone is important in emergencies, arranging for in-home care, and socializing with family and friends. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) includes the telephone. It is one of the many aspects of a home that can be modified to allow older adults to interact effectively with their home environment.
