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Mike Mitka

JAMA. 2001;286:1699-1700.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Physicians are trained in medicine, but should they also learn interior design? In some ways, yes, say medical and other experts who believe home modification can reduce injuries and improve lifestyle for older patients, those aged 65 and up.

Rosemary Bakker (left) with Arlene Sussillo following a home assessment. Sussillo uses a bed handle that allows her to get out of bed without the assistance of a home care giver. (Photo credit: Rosemary Bakker)

While home improvement advocates do not mean physicians should become architects, they do say making suggestions to patients to modify their homes can improve their lives. Fairly simple changes may in some cases enable an elderly man or woman to keep living among friends and neighbors rather than have to move to an "assisted living" residence.

"If the environment isn't appropriate, injuries can occur that lead to major disability," said Ronald Adelman, MD, codirector . . . [Full Text of this Article]