If you develop mobility issues, you will need to make your home more accessible. Whilst in some cases you may have to move home completely, it isn’t always necessary. There are various adjustments you can make to your current home, such as purchasing portable ramps. In this blog we’ll look at ways in which you can make changes to a home you already live in.
Try portable ramps or create level access
Whether your mobility issues are temporary or permanent, portable ramps instantly make your home more accessible. They can fit over existing steps or areas of uneven ground. If you have large flights of stairs, a modular ramp system may be more appropriate. Alternatively, you could create level access to your home. This may include re-landscaping a garden or other complex work, but will enable you to keep enjoying your home.
Automatic door entry system
If you have a disability you may not have the strength or dexterity to open a regular door. They can also be difficult to operate for people who use wheelchairs or mobility aids such as walking frames. Automatic door opening systems help promote independence as people are able to come and go as they please. They are operated by a switch or a fob meaning it is not necessary to touch the door at all.
Flooring and floor space
Ensuring you have a clear floor space makes it easier to avoid hazards that could block a wheelchair or cause tripping. The best option for wheelchair users is a wooden or laminate floor. Thick carpets and rugs can make it difficult to manoeuvre a wheelchair. Wooden or laminate floors provide traction and are easy to clean during winter when wheelchair tyres are dirty and wet from being outside. Bathroom floors should be non-slip and provide enough grip to make moving around easy.
Adapted kitchen
The kitchen is a very important part of the home, and often a focal point for family time. All members of the family should be able to make use of the kitchen whether disabled or not. Some surfaces in the kitchen can be lowered or made to move up and down, including the cooker and sink. It may also be necessary to change the layout of the kitchen so that a wheelchair user or less mobile person can easily move around in it.
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