Arenas, From Page 1.

ment process was a visit to Kuirina at the nursing home and Ken at his home.
Technology Specialist David Altman has experience with a variety of vehicle modifications, including wheelchair lifts, lowered floors, and hand controls. He considers the consumer, their mobility (use of a wheelchair or scooter), and the type of vehicle before making recommendations. David determined the Bruno Automotive Seating System would be a cost effective solution. Kuirina can be lifted up and into the family’s van on a seat that turns and extends out past the van. The Aged and Disabled Medicaid Waiver covered the $4,600 cost for the vehicle modifications.
Another Technology Specialist, Randy Stevens worked on solutions for the entrance and bathroom. After taking measurements, Randy designed a ramp with a landing for transfers in and out of the van. The Aged and Disabled Medicaid Waiver covered the $3,929 cost of the ramp.
Bathroom modifications included several recommendations. Swing clear hinges were installed to maximize the

opening in the doorway and to increase the space available for Kuirina and her caregiver. Randy recommended that the existing toilet be removed and be replaced with a raised toilet accompanied with grab bars. Randy demonstrated a tub lift for Ken (similar to what was being used at the nursing home). Ken felt he and Kuirina’s caregivers would be able to utilize the equipment that could be funded by Medicaid.
Randy’s recommendations for the bathroom ($1,392) exceeded the
amount available from the Aged and Disabled Medicaid Waiver by $321. ATP’s Funding Coordinator, Cathy Hayes, was able to identify additional funding from Vocational Part B to cover the balance, making all modifications possible.
Ken describes, “My daughter was able to return home within several months thanks to the modifications. If we had received inadequate or inappropriate solutions, we would not have been successful. My daughter has become part of the community again. She volunteers several times a month and pictures she has colored are posted in the rooms of the nursing home residents.”

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