Independent, Professional Guidance for a Safer Home
Whole-Person Plans. Real-World Spaces.
Creating a safe, accessible home so you can enjoy independence and age in place right here in the Philadelphia Region
How Does It Work?
1) Discovery Call
We start with a conversation to understand your goals, concerns, and timeline. Are you gathering information? Planning ahead? Facing an urgent change? We’ll meet you where you are, then help you get oriented. We’ll also learn about your home, health needs, and who else is involved in decision-making.
2) Schedule Your Home Assessment
This is more than a safety check; it’s a collaborative walk-through led by an Occupational Therapist. We look at how your space supports (or limits) your daily routines, mobility, and long-term goals. We ask thoughtful questions
3) Receive Your Comprehensive Report
We turn your evaluation into a real-world action plan. You’ll receive personalized recommendations, product suggestions, and to-scale drawings when needed. The goal: practical solutions that work for your body, your space, and your lifestyle, whether that means reorganizing or fully renovating.
4) From Plan to Project
We help you bridge the gap between clinical insight and real-world execution. Whether you need a trusted contractor or already have one, we provide clear, contractor-ready documentation and coordinate directly to make sure your goals are prioritized. We help vet proposals, align timelines, and prepare you for what’s ahead.
We offer peace of mind and a clear roadmap to ensure the work reflects your goals and functions as intended.
We’re here to make sure your space works for you now
and in the future.
About
Dawn Heiderscheidt OTR/L, ECHM, CAPS, CHAMP
Founder
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With over a decade of experience in occupational therapy, Dawn Heiderscheidt has transformed her expertise into Aurora Independence, a dedicated mobile therapy and home modifications business. Guided by a commitment to empowering independence and creating safer, more accessible homes, the Aurora Independence team brings a unique blend of knowledge, skill, and compassion to each project.
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Our lead specialist holds advanced certifications, including an Executive Certification in Home Modifications from the University of Southern California, and all therapists are Certified Aging in Place Specialists from the National Association of Home Builders.
This depth of expertise allows us to offer clients more than just recommendations—we provide practical, customized solutions that truly meet each client’s needs.
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At Aurora Independence,we help individuals and caregivers feel confident, secure, and fully supported as they age in place.
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When you choose Aurora Independence, you’re investing in a trusted team committed to making your home a place where independence and peace of mind thrive.
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Our Vision
To create a world where every home supports the safety, dignity, and independence of its occupants. We envision inclusive spaces that evolve with your needs—spaces that empower people of all abilities to live fully and comfortably in the places they love.
Our Mission
To promote independent living by delivering personalized, clinically-informed, and socially conscious home modification solutions. Through occupational therapy expertise and a client-centered approach, we provide clear, actionable pathways that respect your values, priorities, and pace of change. We meet you where you are, with compassion, creativity, and a commitment to outcomes that last.
Your Results
You get more than a home assessment. You get a partner who listens, evaluates, and helps you act. We tailor every consultation to your goals, routines, and functional needs, whether you're planning ahead or adapting after a major life change. Our recommendations are grounded in evidence-based practice, guided by occupational therapy principles, and built for real life. The result? Practical changes that make daily living easier, safer, and more sustainable.
