Disabilities can change the way we operate in day-to-day life, even in spaces as familiar as our home. In fact, the home can quickly become a challenging space full of obstacles when new disabilities impact our lives. Stairs, bathrooms, doorknobs, and certain surfaces may suddenly become hazardous, and it may be overwhelming to try and adapt. Thankfully, several solutions exist to make your home life feel as normal as ever. In fact, updating your home can ensure safety, create comfort, and enable autonomous living. Below, explore 10 ways to transform a house into a handicap accessible home for you or your loved ones living with disabilities.
1. Replace stairs with ramps
Stairs are a hazard for many, not just those in wheelchairs but for anyone with limited mobility. They also tend to pop up in almost any architectural style. Even if your home is a single-story ranch, you likely have at least one or two steps leading from your stoop to your doorway, or from an interior landing to a living room. Several ramp styles exist to meet any needs; collapsible ramps allow for easy storage portabe ramps mean you can quickly transform any step into a wheelchair accessible entry on the go, and make an entryway instantly accessible.
2. Install a stair lift
If you or your loved one finds stairs to be a cumbersome obstacle, consider installing a stair lift. Stair lifts come in a wide variety of styles, and can be installed as a permanent home modification, or can be an on-the-go solutions, such as a portable stair climber. Stair lifts turn multi-level homes or even front yard steps into accessible homes for those with limited mobility. Installing them will level out your home and create a safe, accessible space.
3. Consider an elevator
An alternative to a stairlift, elevators can be a great solution for those with limited mobility. They can be elegant, safe, reliable, and swift. They can also be integrated into existing architecture. You may think installing an elevator is cost-prohibitive, but putting an elevator in your home drives up the home’s value—often to a point much higher than the cost of installation.
4. Remove bathing barriers
For many, the bathroom presents many obstacles. Slick tile becomes extremely hazardous when wet and soapy, and tubs and countertops aren’t forgiving surfaces for those prone to falls. The tub can be especially challenging given that tubs have tall sides, creating a tricky physical barrier to entry. Luckily step in tubs eliminate that barrier, allowing users to step into the tub without straddling the side. This creates a much safer experience, reducing the risk of falls.
5. Update your toilet
In addition to the tub, the toilet is another area of the bathroom that can become treacherous for those with disabilities. Handrails eliminate users need to balance as they sit down and stand up from the toilet. Consider installing a simple safety frame around your toilet to increase the user’s comfort and quality of life.
6. Place handrails in key areas
For those with poor balance, prone to falls, low mobility, or who simply need help getting up out of chairs, beds, or bathroom areas, well-placed handrails can make a world of difference. Grab rails in the bathroom especially will decrease the risk of falls, and help users lift themselves up from seated positions. They increase independence, and create peace-of-mind.
7. Ditch doorknobs
Many styles of doorknobs are cumbersome and hard to use for those who have a hard time gripping. Replacing doorknobs with push/pull bars, press lever handles will increase your home’s accessibility tremendously.
These doors can be installed both indoors and outdoors, and enable users to open any entrance with the push of a button. Automatic doors can be installed quickly and easily on almost any door type, and may be customized to be activated from a wide range of devices, such as wheelchair control switches, wall push pads, home control systems, and more. Furthermore, automatic doors do not override manual operations, meaning the doors can still be used manually if desired.
8. Rearrange your furniture
Consider the layout of your home. Is your furniture situated so that those with low-mobility or those in wheelchairs can easily get around? Arrange your furniture so that there are no sharp turns or narrow passageways. Make daily use items, such as comfy chairs, bookshelves, and kitchen plates and utensils, easy to access. This may mean moving items to lower shelves for those using mobility devices.
9. Be mindful of your surfaces
As we mentioned, surfaces like tile can become quite slick. Hardwood floors, thick rugs, and rough grout can also be hard for those using mobility devices and aids such as walkers and canes. In some cases, it may be best to carpet your surfaces with smooth, even carpeting. Or, perhaps you should replace some rugs that slip and slide easily. Be sure to install grippy mats in bathrooms and showers. Ensure that all surfaces in your home do not pose any tripping or slipping threats.10. Hire an expert – Hire a reputable contractor with reference
10. Hire an expert – Hire a reputable contractor with references