Eliminating Barriers to the Disabled

Abstract

Abstract Project Open House provides for the removal of architectural barriers in the homes of disabled low and moderate income New York City dwellers. This program was developed as a cooperative effort between United Cerebral Palsy of New York City, Inc., the New York City Mayor’s Office for the Handicapped, and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development. Project Open House operates as follows. An occupational therapist evaluates both structure dwelling and client needs; this information is used as a basis for the prescription of structural modifications and equipment that will allow increased physical accessibility. On completion of the prescribed work, the therapist trains the individual and family in the use of the modifications. Project Open House and Family Support Services are community programs that provide a cost-effective method for improving the quality of life for disabled individuals and their families.