Moving from Crisis to Stability
Moving from Crisis to Stability
David, a 68-year-old former engineer with advancing Parkinson’s, was living in a council property that no longer met his needs. The stairs were becoming increasingly difficult to manage, the bathroom was cramped, and his family members were concerned that the home environment was placing him at growing risk.
Although David had tried to remain as independent as possible, his mobility, balance and confidence had gradually declined. Everyday tasks that had once been manageable were becoming more effortful, and the layout of the property made it difficult to plan safely for the future.
Versatile completed a private occupational therapy rehousing assessment to consider David’s current functional ability, environmental barriers and likely longer-term needs. The assessment looked at how his Parkinson’s affected day-to-day activities, including internal mobility, stair use, bathroom access, transfers and safe use of the home.
The resulting report provided clear professional evidence that David’s current property was no longer suitable. It set out why a move to more accessible accommodation was clinically justified and identified the key housing features required, including level access, one-level living and an accessible bathroom environment.
While awaiting statutory assessment, David’s family members were able to present the council with clear occupational therapy evidence to support his housing case. This helped clarify the level of need and gave decision-makers a practical understanding of why the current property was no longer appropriate.
David was later offered a ground-floor council property that better matched the recommendations within the report. The move reduced daily risk, improved his confidence at home, and gave his family reassurance that his housing was more suitable for both his current and future needs.
This case study highlights the value of timely occupational therapy input where a home is no longer safe, practical or sustainable. A clear rehousing assessment can help families understand the issues, evidence the need for change and support better long-term housing decisions.
Related services
Rehousing Assessments → For occupational therapy housing reports that evidence why a current property is unsuitable and what type of home may be required.
Major Adaptations → For clinically reasoned housing adaptations, level-access solutions and long-term environmental planning.
Foundation Assessment → For individuals and families who need a clear occupational therapy assessment before making decisions about equipment, adaptations or future support.
Which Service Do I Need? → For help understanding which assessment or service is most appropriate before getting started.
