Assistive Technology and Home Modifications are helping more older Australians stay safe and independent at home. From grab rails and mobility aids to ramps and personal alarms, the right supports can reduce fall risks and make everyday tasks easier. That’s why they are recognised within the Support at Home program as a dedicated short-term pathway, a standalone assessed support, or as part of broader in-home care services.
In this article:
The right Assistive Technology and Home Modifications, such as grab rails, mobility aids, ramps, personal alarms, and kitchen aids, are provided to assist older Australians to stay safe and independent at home. The Support at Home program recognises the importance of these additional supports and has introduced a short-term AT-HM pathway.Assistive Technology and Home Modifications are designed to support older Australians with practical solutions that improve safety, accessibility, and independence at home.
What is Support at Home?
Learn more about the Support at Home program, or speak to your local Just Better Care office to see how we can help you at Home.
Under the Support at Home program, Assistive Technology and Home Modifications are available through a dedicated short-term pathway as a separate funding stream, helping eligible and assessed participants access the equipment, products, and home modifications they need to remain living safely and independently in their own Home, for longer.
You can learn more about all short-term pathways on our Support at Home short-term pathways page.
Eligible participants may be assessed for assistive technology, home modifications, or both, with funding allocated based on the level of support required.
This funding can also include allied health prescriptions and wraparound supports to help ensure equipment and modifications are used safely and effectively.
For more about the My Aged Care assessment and the cost of Support at Home, see our guides to the ACAT assessment and How much does Support at Home cost?
Understanding Assistive Technology under Support at Home
The new aged care program includes funding pathways for assistive technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM)
Learn how Assistive Technology and Home Modifications work under Support at Home.
Many assistive technology devices and home modifications can support ageing at Home.
Below are five of the most widely used and effective options that help older Australians improve safety, independence, and everyday comfort.
1. Bathroom Safety Equipment and Grab Rails
Bathrooms are among the highest-risk areas for slips and falls in the Home.
Installing assistive safety equipment, such as grab bars, shower chairs, and non-slip surfaces, can significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve confidence during daily routines.
Common bathroom modifications include:
- Grab rails near showers and toilets
- Shower chairs or bath transfer benches
- Hand-held shower heads
- Non-slip flooring or safety mats
- Raised toilet seats
These simple modifications can help older Australians be more confident moving around the bathroom safely.
2. Mobility Aids for Safer Movement Around the Home
Mobility aids (or mobility equipment) are among the most widely used assistive options for older people.
Mobility equipment such as walking frames, walking sticks, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters helps improve stability, reduce the risk of falls and increase independence.
When prescribed by a health professional, such as an Occupational Therapist, these assistive devices can significantly improve confidence and support active ageing.
New to Support at Home?
This program replaces several existing government-subsidised home care programs and services and introduces a new approach to funding and additional support pathways.
3. Ramps, Handrails and Accessibility Modifications
Accessibility improvements are one of the most effective home modifications for elderly people living at Home. Simple changes such as ramps, stair handrails, and improved lighting can make homes safer and easier to navigate.
Examples of accessibility modifications include:
- Entry ramps for wheelchairs or walkers
- Handrails along hallways or stairs
- Step-free shower access
- Improved lighting to reduce trip hazards
- Door handle or tap modifications
These home modifications are particularly important for people with reduced mobility or those recovering from illness or injury.
4. Personal Alarms and Smart Safety Technology
Personal alarms and smart safety devices are becoming an increasingly important form of assistive technology for older Australians.
These devices are usually connected to a monitoring system and allow people to quickly call for help if needed while continuing to live independently at Home.
Common assistive safety technology includes:
- Emergency call pendants
- Fall detection devices
- Medication reminder systems
- Smart home monitoring devices
For families and carers, these technologies can provide reassurance while supporting independent living.
5. Kitchen and Daily Living Assistive Devices
Many everyday tasks can become more challenging with age, but assistive devices for daily living can help older Australians maintain independence.
Kitchen and household assistive technology may include:
- Easy-grip utensils
- Adaptive cutlery
- Jar openers
- Reacher tools
- Support seating or adjustable chairs
These simple devices allow people to continue preparing meals, completing household tasks, and maintaining routines.
Short-term programs may also help.
Some older Australians may benefit from short-term restorative programs that include assistive technology and home modifications.
Why Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Matter?
Assistive technology and Home Modifications do more than improve safety. They support independence, maintain quality of life, and help older Australians remain connected to their communities.
To explore available services and support options, visit the Support at Home page.
Need help getting started with home care?
Speak with your local Just Better Care office about aged care services and personalised support that can help you or your loved one remain independent at Home.
Related resources
People also ask us:
Who is most likely to benefit from assistive technology and home modifications?
Older Australians who want to stay safe, independent, and confident at home may benefit from assistive technology and home modifications, especially if everyday tasks, mobility, or access to the home have become more challenging.
What are the most common home modifications for older Australians?
Common home modifications include grab rails, ramps, handrails, non-slip bathroom improvements, and other accessibility changes that make the home safer and easier to navigate.
What are the most common types of assistive technology used at home?
Common examples include mobility aids, shower and toileting supports, personal alarms, daily living aids, and other equipment designed to make everyday activities safer and easier at home.
Can assistive technology help reduce the risk of falls at home?
Yes. The right assistive technology can improve stability, support safer movement, and make daily tasks easier, which may help reduce fall risks and improve confidence around the home.
How do home modifications support ageing in place?
Home modifications can make the living environment safer and more accessible, helping older people continue living comfortably in familiar surroundings for longer.
Can assistive technology and home modifications be used together?
Yes. Many people use a combination of equipment and home changes to improve safety, accessibility, and independence as part of their broader support arrangements at home.
Are assistive technology and home modifications only for people with high care needs?
No. Some supports are simple, low-risk solutions that can help with everyday safety and independence before needs become more complex.
Can short-term support include assistive technology and home modifications?
Yes. Depending on assessed needs, short-term pathways under Support at Home may include assistive technology and home modifications that help people recover, regain confidence, or continue living safely at home.
Why is early planning important when considering assistive technology?
Early planning can help identify practical supports before safety issues become more serious, making it easier to stay independent and manage everyday activities at home.
Where can families learn more about Support at Home services and eligibility?
Families can visit the Support at Home hub to learn more about eligibility, services, funding, and how to get started.=
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