I finally did it; I got my CAPS certification! I know, you are asking yourself “What does a pediatric occupational therapist want with an Aging-In-Place certificate?” Well, as it turns out, many of the barriers and home access problems that require redesign or better design for older adults are also issues with children dealing with developmental issues. And they deserve the most functional home they can possibly have!
I treat children in their homes, so I see a wide variety of situations. Here are a few of the most common problems I encounter:
- Entries and stairs that don’t have railings at a helpful height for children with motor control issues. If your child is likely to struggle with stairs for a while, adding a lower railing on both sides of the stairs is very, very helpful. They can be removed later on, but since you cannot alter the risers (the height of the steps) without major construction, do what you can to give your child a secure handhold.
- Slippery floors. Tile can be treated to make it just a bit tackier, but not feel like gravel. Online sellers will offer this, and you can apply it yourself if you are skilled, or hire a tile company to coat your tile for you.
- Right-height work areas. Young children with motor issues often need the play table to be the correct height for them. Their reach and grasp, as well as their balance, improves when they are sitting well. But they grow. What can you do? I suggest buying an inexpensive wooden table and cutting the legs until they are the right height. When your child outgrows it, buy a new table and trim the legs as needed. You can add brackets on the leg joints to add stability to an inexpensive table.
If you are in the market for a new home, a CAPS professional can help you think about accessibility as a factor when shopping for real estate. Although the easiest way to achieve universal access is to build a new home, there are homes that are easier to adapt, and home that are nearly impossible. Being able to see what a house offers is more than location, location, location.
Know what the implications of your child’s diagnosis means for accessibility and function. Children with cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy will likely do better in a ranch house or a house with an elevator. Don’t think you have the room for an elevator? You might, you might not, or you might install a lift instead. Your CAPS consultant can help you look at all the options. Improving bathing, grooming and safe play spaces is on the list of things that a CAPS professional can address. Read Should You Install a Child-Sized Potty for Your Special Needs Child? to find out how this simple and affordable swap could make life easier for both of you.
I will be exploring all of my options for consulting as a CAPS, but my training as an OTR and my background in adult and pediatric home care means that I will be as excited to help young families as to help older people. Who knows: I may decide to offer a multi-generational package of services! Stay tuned for more information and suggestions for accessibility!
