We all want to live comfortably in our own homes, regardless of our physical abilities. However, for those who have mobility limitations, it’s not always easy to access every part of the house. Thankfully, various handicap-friendly upgrades can be made to your home to make it more accessible for everyone. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the best and most effective handicap-friendly upgrades that you can make to your home.
Install Ramps
One of the most obvious and practical ways to make your home more accessible is by installing ramps. Ramps can be installed at the entrance of your home, as well as any other areas where there may be steps or stairs. Ramps come in various sizes and materials, including aluminium, wood, and concrete. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose the best option that will make it easier to enter and exit your home.
Wide Doorways
Another easy and practical upgrade is widening your doorways. Standard doorways are typically too narrow for wheelchairs or walkers to pass through. By widening the doorways, you’ll create more space, making it easier for those with mobility limitations to move around the house. A standard doorway is about 30 inches wide, but a handicap-friendly doorway should be at least 36 inches.
Bathroom Upgrades
Perhaps one of the most important areas of the house that needs to be made more accessible is the bathroom. Installing grab bars, shower chairs, walk-in baths, and non-slip flooring can greatly improve the safety and comfort of the bathroom.
If you have any questions on these or the installation process, it is always recommended to reach out to local professionals like Midwest Bath Company. Adding extra space for wheelchairs and walkers is also important for manoeuvrability.
Stair Lifts
For homes with multiple floors, installing a stair lift is a convenient way to make it easier for those with mobility limitations to access all areas of the home. A stair lift is a chair that is attached to a rail along the staircase, allowing the person to easily glide up and down the stairs without having to climb them.
Smart Home Technology
Finally, investing in smart home technology can also make your home more accessible. Devices such as smart thermostats, voice-activated lights and door locks, and remote-controlled blinds can all be controlled with a smartphone or a voice command. This technology can be especially useful for those with mobility limitations who may not be able to reach or manipulate various objects in the home easily.
No one should have to struggle to navigate their own home, regardless of their physical abilities. By making these small but significant upgrades, you can ensure that your home is more accessible for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with a temporary injury or more permanent limitations, there are various options available to create a more comfortable and safe living environment. Consult with an accessibility professional to create a plan that is best suited to your needs and budget.
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