If you have a disability or chronic illness, it can be tough to navigate your home. But with a few simple modifications, you might find that the place where you live is not only more accessible but also safer and easier to maintain. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make your home more accessible for those who may need help getting around.
Install A Ramp At Your Front Door
If you have difficulty with stairs, installing a ramp could be the best modification for your home. Make sure that it is wide enough to accommodate any wheelchairs or walkers and has an accessible landing area. You also want to make sure that the ground slopes away from the house rather than towards it in case someone falls. You should also install a railing on the ramp to prevent any falls and make sure that there are no obstructions or tripping hazards in the landing area, such as toys or potted plants, according to AccessAble Home Modifications. One of the biggest challenges for those with disabilities is navigating staircases (especially ones without railings). If this is something you struggle with too, consider adding another bedroom on the first floor so someone else can sleep close to where they need to go during nighttime bathroom runs. It might be wise to explore modifying your home’s layout entirely which could include moving doors, widening hallways, lowering light switches, etc.).
Add Grab Bars Next To Your Toilet And In The Shower
Adding grab bars can make it much easier for someone with disabilities or chronic illness to sit down on the seat of a commode, stand up from it, or navigate their way around a bathroom. Make sure that they are secure before you rely on them as support! You also don’t want anything sharp where people could snag clothing or accidentally cut themselves.
In order to prevent falls during showers, add a walk-in tub if possible. This is especially helpful when paired with non-slip mats which will keep those who have trouble balancing stable while getting clean (and preventing slips). If this isn’t an option due to space constraints, consider installing handrails along the walls of your shower.
Use A Raised Toilet Seat
As we mentioned above, using a traditional commode can be dangerous for those with disabilities or chronic illnesses. When you’re seated on the edge of a regular-sized potty chair it is very easy to lose your balance and fall off – especially if you have weak arms or legs that tire easily. Using an elevated version means that there will always be something to hold onto while sitting down and standing up from the bathroom fixture. They are also easier to use for people who have trouble bending their knees as well as getting back up again due to muscle weakness in either area.
Other options include installing grab bars next to your existing toilet so someone else can help steady themselves when they stand up after going number two.
Be Sure To Have Good Lighting
Those who are blind or visually impaired often use light switches that emit a loud clicking noise when turned on and off so they can identify them easily. You should also install bright lights in dark areas (like your hallway) as well as motion-activated ones outside of rooms like the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom where you spend most of your time. Make sure that all doorways have adequate lighting too – this will be especially helpful for those with poor eyesight at night! For help finding out what types of modifications would work best for your home’s unique layout and challenges, contact an occupational therapist today.
It’s also important to keep in mind that some homes are naturally more accessible than others. If you live on the upper floor of a multistory building, then your daily routine centers around stairs and staircases.
