About the Professions

Occupational Therapy
Architecture
Contractor
Handymen
Interior Design

Occupational Therapy:

Occupational therapists are health professionals who focus on the ability of a person to complete daily activities as independently as possible. They work with people and children of a variety of ages and diagnoses from early intervention and schools to rehabilitation hospitals, long term care, and private homes in the community. They analyze barriers to independence and are able to determine environmental obstacles to a person’s ability to perform activities of daily living safely. They recommend home modifications based on a person’s abilities and anticipated needs in order to increase and maintain his or her level of independence.

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): http://www.aota.org

AOTA Home Modifications Page: https://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy/Professionals/PA/Facts/Home-Modifications.aspx

Architecture:

Architects are trained and licensed to plan, design, and supervise the construction of buildings and living spaces. They manage coordinating building codes, Americans with Disabilities Act regulations, and design to create a home that is both functional and aesthetic.

The American Institute of Architects: http://www.aia.org/

Contractor:

Contractors are construction professionals who complete larger scale projects that can last over several weeks or longer. They are typically the people who will perform the actual construction of the building and will work with architects to ensure the facility is being built properly, within the confines of the landscape, and is in compliance with building codes. Licensure varies by state and specialty area.

The Associated General Contractors of America: http://www.agc.org/

NARI_Logo

National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI): http://www.nari.org/

Handymen:

Handymen often perform smaller home repair and modification jobs. They typically will complete projects that can be finished in a few hours. Certification for handymen depends on the specific job desire and varies state by state.

Association of Certified Handyman Professionals: http://www.handymanassociation.org/

The United Handymen Association: http://theuha.net/

Interior Design:

Interior designers are trained and licensed to address the layout and aesthetics of spaces. They focus on the functionality of an area, incorporating lighting, room colors, flooring, and furniture choice/layout. Interior designers have the option to specialize in healthcare, residential, and kitchen/bath design, among other specialties.