SANTA FE, N.M. — A groundbreaking digital tool, myAccessibleHome, is poised to transform how occupational therapists assess residences for modifications needed by aging adults and individuals with disabilities. Developed by a dedicated team of researchers, this innovative application leverages artificial intelligence to enable remote evaluations, eliminating the necessity for in-person visits and offering a scalable solution to a growing societal challenge.
The introduction of myAccessibleHome comes at a critical juncture as the nation, and particularly states like New Mexico, grapple with the demographic phenomenon known as the "silver tsunami." This wave of aging baby boomers is significantly increasing the population of older adults, necessitating a greater focus on ensuring their continued independence and safety within their own homes. The app’s potential to streamline accessibility assessments is therefore timely and deeply relevant.
"We’re thinking about the person and their specific needs, their specific challenges, the tasks that they need to do and want to do in their homes," stated Suzanne Burns, an occupational therapist and co-founder and co-CEO of myAccessibleHome. Burns, who also holds an associate professor position in occupational therapy at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, emphasized the personalized approach embedded within the technology.
While the app has recently launched, its availability is currently limited, and it has not yet been released to the general public. This phased rollout allows for further refinement and strategic partnerships before wider distribution.
Addressing a Growing Demographic and Accessibility Gap
The demographic shift towards an older population is undeniable. New Mexico, in particular, has experienced a pronounced increase in its over-65 demographic, with a nearly 40% growth between 2010 and 2019, a rate that outpaced the national average. This trend is projected to continue, intensifying the demand for age-friendly housing solutions.
Compounding this demographic reality is a significant accessibility deficit in existing housing stock. According to 2023 Census data, an estimated 4 million households across the United States present accessibility challenges for older residents. These inadequacies can pose serious safety risks. In New Mexico, unintentional falls have been identified as the leading cause of injury-related deaths among individuals aged 65 and older from 2019 to 2023. Furthermore, data from the state Department of Health reveals a concerning rise in fall-related hospitalizations since 2020, underscoring the urgent need for preventative measures.
The challenges are amplified in states like New Mexico, characterized by its vast rural landscapes, a persistent shortage of healthcare providers, and a limited number of companies specializing in installing accessibility modifications such as ramps and specialized bathroom fixtures. "New Mexico is not prepared for this generation of older adults who are aging in place," Burns acknowledged, highlighting the critical need for innovative solutions. "We’re doing our best to at least partially fill that gap," she added, expressing the team’s commitment to mitigating this disparity.
Technological Innovation: How myAccessibleHome Works
The myAccessibleHome platform is designed for intuitive use, beginning with the patient or their caregiver answering a series of initial questions via a smartphone. These questions are crucial for understanding the individual’s specific mobility challenges, the likelihood of falls, and the potential severity of such incidents. This information forms the foundation for the subsequent home assessment.
Following the initial questionnaire, users are guided to scan their home environment using the app. This is where the augmented reality (AR) technology comes into play. The AR system meticulously captures precise measurements of the home’s interior spaces, creating a detailed digital blueprint. This data is then compiled into an initial report, which is subsequently presented to a qualified occupational therapist.
Once the occupational therapist reviews and approves the report, the patient and their caregivers receive a comprehensive list of recommended modifications. This list is not merely advisory; it also includes vital connections to local installers capable of executing the recommended changes, as well as suggestions for assistive technologies that could enhance safety and independence.
The spectrum of recommended modifications can range from minor adjustments to significant structural alterations. Examples include the installation of grab bars in bathrooms for enhanced stability, the integration of smart home devices to automate lighting, thereby reducing fall risks in dimly lit areas, or more extensive projects such as widening doorways to facilitate wheelchair accessibility.
Development and Deployment Timeline
The development of the myAccessibleHome app represents a significant investment in research and innovation, spanning over a decade. This extensive period of R&D was supported by a substantial $1.6 million in federal funding from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research.
The iOS version of the myAccessibleHome app was launched in the United States in May. The Android version is anticipated to follow in the fall, expanding the app’s reach to a wider range of users.
However, access to myAccessibleHome is currently curated. It is not available for direct download from app stores. Instead, the app is being deployed through strategic partnerships with various organizations, such as groups serving individuals with brain injuries. This partnership model allows for the app’s features and recommendations to be tailored to the specific needs of the populations served by these organizations, ensuring a more personalized and effective application of the technology.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Human Expertise
The integration of artificial intelligence is a cornerstone of myAccessibleHome’s functionality, but the developers are keen to emphasize the continued primacy of human clinical judgment. "The software doesn’t make clinical decisions," Burns clarified. "We’re really using occupational therapists to make those decisions. Even though this is incredible for efficiency and reach, there are still some pieces that we want that human interaction and that human decision-making."
This hybrid approach, where AI enhances efficiency and data capture, is particularly beneficial in geographically dispersed areas like New Mexico. The ability for occupational therapists to conduct virtual assessments can overcome significant logistical hurdles, especially where in-person visits are time-consuming and costly, or where a scarcity of qualified professionals exists.
"AI supports efficiency, our speed. It supports our data capture. It’s a great starting point," Burns explained. "But the decision-making still comes down to the human, and I think that’s important." This philosophy ensures that while technology expedites the process and provides valuable insights, the ultimate recommendations are grounded in the nuanced understanding and expertise of a trained occupational therapist.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The implications of myAccessibleHome extend beyond individual home modifications. The platform has the potential to significantly impact public health initiatives aimed at reducing fall-related injuries and fatalities among older adults. By enabling more widespread and efficient accessibility assessments, it can contribute to a proactive approach to aging-in-place, thereby reducing the burden on healthcare systems and improving the quality of life for seniors.
The success of this remote assessment model could also serve as a blueprint for other healthcare professions and service providers. As telehealth continues to evolve, tools that integrate AI and AR for remote patient evaluation are likely to become increasingly prevalent.
Furthermore, the app’s model of partnering with specialized organizations offers a scalable framework for adapting advanced technological solutions to diverse needs within the disability and aging communities. This collaborative approach ensures that the technology remains relevant and effective for a wide array of users.
As myAccessibleHome moves towards broader public availability, its impact on enabling safer, more accessible, and independent living for aging adults and individuals with disabilities is anticipated to be substantial, particularly in regions facing unique challenges like New Mexico. The confluence of demographic trends, technological innovation, and a growing awareness of accessibility needs positions myAccessibleHome as a pivotal development in the pursuit of inclusive and supportive living environments.
