Simpson
There are many ways to improve the home of a person with a disability. This blog post will discuss six different ideas that can make their life a little easier. Many of these modifications can be made at minimal cost, and some can even be done by the homeowner. Keep reading for more information.
Install a stairlift
One of the primary things you can do to make the home of a person with a disability more accessible is to install a stairlift. This will enable them to move between floors with ease, and without having to rely on someone else for assistance. Stairlifts can be purchased for both straight and curved staircases, so be sure to choose the right one for your home. If you’re not sure which type of stairlift is best, consult with a professional. In addition to this, if you are tight on budget, take the time to research your options because you may even qualify for a stairlift grant which means that it could be installed for free. Just keep in mind that this process can take some time, so be patient.
Add handrails to stairways
When it comes to stairways, handrails are a must. They provide support and stability for those who need it and can make maneuvering up and down stairs much easier. Handrails can be added to both the inside and outside of stairways, so be sure to choose the placement that will work best for your home. If you’re not sure how to install handrails, there are plenty of resources available online or you can consult with a professional. This is a great option for you in case a stairlift is not possible to be installed in your home.
Widen doorways and hallways
If you have narrow doorways and hallways in your home, it can make it difficult for a differently-abled person to get around. To make things easier, you can widen these areas to make them more accessible. This is a relatively simple project that can be done by most homeowners. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
Aside from this, you can also replace doorknobs with levers. This will make it easier for someone with a disability to open and close doors. In addition, you can also add automatic door openers to doors that are frequently used. This is a great way to make your home more accessible for everyone but you have to make sure that it is installed correctly to avoid any accidents.
Make the bathroom accessible
Another important area to focus on is the bathroom. Many individuals with a disability have difficulty using traditional toilets, so consider installing a raised toilet seat. You may also want to add grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub. These bars can provide support and stability for those who need them. In addition, you may want to install a shower seat so that the individual can sit down while bathing. These modifications can make a big difference in the life of a person with a disability.
Build a wheelchair ramp
Another way to make your home more accessible for differently-abled individuals is to build a wheelchair ramp and this will enable them to get in and out of the house with ease, without having to rely on someone else for assistance. Ramps can be made from a variety of materials, so be sure to choose the right one for your home. For instance, you can try using concrete, wood, or metal. Concrete is the most durable option, but it is also the most expensive. Wood is a more affordable option, but it will require more maintenance over time. Metal is a good middle ground between the two which is why it is the most popular choice.
Lower the light switches and outlets
Finally, you can also make your home more friendly to persons with disability by lowering the light switches and outlets. This will enable them to reach them with ease, without having to rely on someone else for assistance. You can find a variety of products that can help you do this, so be sure to shop around and find the best one for your needs. For example, you can try using a light switch extension or an outlet extender. Apart from the light switches, even the thermostat can be lowered to make it more accessible for those in a wheelchair.
There are many ways to make a differently-abled person’s home more accessible and comfortable. By following the tips above, you can make your home more accommodating for them while also improving their quality of life. Rest assured that they will appreciate your efforts.
