My name is Ryan Salmon, and I’ve spent over a decade as an occupational therapist with over two decades of construction experience, currently a licensed contractor and now specializing in Aging in place solutions. My passion for helping individuals and their families find comfort and safety in their own homes led me to establish “Safe Accessible Home.” Little did I know that my first client success story would hit so close to home, quite literally.

In the early to late stages of the pandemic, I found myself living in Alaska while my parents were in Portland. The geographical distance between us posed a significant challenge, but it also presented a unique opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of virtual assessments and consultations.

My father, who had been battling osteoarthritis for years, faced an uphill battle with high pain levels, poor mobility, and a home environment riddled with barriers. I was determined to make a difference, even from afar.

Our journey started with phone calls and Zoom video conferences, where I carefully assessed their situation. Despite the physical separation, I could sense the urgency and importance of our mission. Together, we embarked on a path of transformation that would significantly improve their lives.

One of the most critical modifications was the construction of a gradual ADA-compliant concrete ramp with handrails leading to the front door. This seemingly simple addition made an enormous difference in my father’s daily life, granting him the independence to navigate in and out of the house with ease.

A walk-in shower with strategically placed grab bars became a sanctuary for my father, ensuring his safety while bathing. To assist with transfers and nighttime stability, a grab bar at the head of the bed was added.

But my expertise didn’t stop at home modifications. I recommended different flooring to minimize fall risks, introduced new, safer furniture, and provided guidance on safe and effective Exercise equipment that facilitated easy transfers. Pressure sore cushion recommendations helped alleviate discomfort and improve my father’s quality of life.

One significant change involved trading in both of their cars for a new one that allowed for easier transfers. This not only increased my father’s mobility but also gave my mother much-needed peace of mind.

While my primary focus was on my father’s well-being, I soon realized that the improvements I implemented also significantly benefited my mother, who served as his primary caregiver. With the barriers reduced and the home environment made safer, her Caregiving duties became more manageable.

Then, life threw us a curveball when my mother broke her leg. Suddenly, the roles were reversed, and my father became her caregiver. Through this challenging time, my virtual consultations played a vital role in supporting them both. I helped adapt their home to meet my mother’s needs during her recovery, providing the same level of care and expertise that I had offered my father. He was able to live out his days in the home to his last breath which came in December of 2021.

Today, as my mother’s health and mobility stabilizes, I’m continuing to support her in her journey toward a safer, more accessible home. Currently, I’m consulting with her on remodeling the back deck and patio area, with a strong focus on fall prevention and accessibility. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of the changes we’ve made together.

My first client success story, with my parents as the beneficiaries, reaffirmed my commitment to “Safe Accessible Home.” It’s not just a business; it’s a calling to make a real difference in people’s lives. Through virtual assessments and consultations, I help individuals and their families achieve the peace of mind and support they need to live comfortably at home, regardless of their physical challenges.

In the end, this story is not just about my expertise as an occupational therapist and licensed contractor. It’s a story of love, dedication, and the unwavering belief that every home should be a safe and accessible haven for those who reside within its walls.

I hope this information is helpful. If I can be of support, do not hesitate to reach out. 

In support,

Ryan

I am ready to schedule an appointment!

Originally Published on https://www.safeaccessiblehome.com/blogs/

Ryan Salmon Home Safety / Accessibility Specialist

For the past decade, I have been an occupational therapist primarily serving older adults in the home and community. My background in construction has played a huge role in how I support people in tailoring their environment to meet their needs as it relates to maintaining their safety and accessibility for daily activities. I now have my contractors license again and am providing home assessments as well as doing the actual modifications to assist those who wish to continue living in their home for as long as possible. During the pandemic, I was able to support my baby boomer parents with home modification decisions that allowed my father to live out his remaining days in the home as he always desired. This experience, along with personally living in a remote area, lead to my transition to providing virtual home safety and accessibility consultations. My goal is to support people through the entire process from start to finish with assessments over zoom, with photos, videos, gathering data with lidar technology if possible, developing a plan, locating the best contractors for the job, being the liaison between the clients and the contractors and follow up assessments. I am available for medically necessary cases in Alaska, and preparatory cases anywhere else on the planet so if you are planning for the future, feel free to reach out.