Perceived effects of home renovation on independence of physically disabled Koreans living at home

Purpose: This study aims to identify the potential effects of home renovation on independence promotion of physically disabled Koreans living at home. Method: The method of the study is a survey with a questionnaire; subjects are physically disabled people living at home in rural and urban areas in Korea. The Functional Independence Measure was used to measure changes in subjects' levels of independence. Results: It was expected that if homes were renovated according to individual needs, disabled people's independence level would be increased by one or more level compared to their current daily independence level in their existing homes. In particular, independence levels concerning bathing and locomotion, which are low in existing conditions, were expected to increase significantly with renovation. Such effects on independence level were conspicuous for disabled people in rural area. Conclusion: The results prove the positive effects of home renovations of disabled people's independence, thus providing meaningful academic evidence on home renovations for disabled people.