Just because you have limited mobility, it doesn’t mean that you can’t be independent in your own home. All you need are a few home modifications and you can find yourself enjoying even the most difficult-to-maneuver parts of your home. Whether you need temporary solutions or more permanent remodels, there are things you can do to improve the accessibility of your home. Designing a home ideal for accessibility doesn't have to be complicated.
Widen Doorways
Doorways can sometimes be difficult for wheelchair users to get through. Many homes have doorways that are between 23 to 30 inches; however, the ideal doorway length for a wheelchair user is between 32 to 36 inches. If your home has small doorways, consider installing offset hinges or removing doors altogether. These options can get you an extra inch or two of extra space. If those options don’t work, consider hiring a contractor widen the doorway.
Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are great for assisting users throughout the house. The good thing about these is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. One place where they are especially helpful is in the bathroom. Because the bathroom is usually one of the smallest and most dangerous room in the house, having grab bars installed here can dramatically improve accessibility. Consider having them installed near the toilet, inside the shower, and right outside of the shower.
Have Ramps Installed
If you’re a wheelchair user, having a ramp or multiple ramps installed in your home is a great way to improve accessibility. These easy to install devices allow you to access different levels with ease. There are many ramp options that you can have installed in your home including:
- Modular ramps
- Bariatric ramps
- Portable ramps
- Threshold ramps
Remodel the Bathroom and Kitchen
Because the kitchen and the bathroom are the two most frequently used rooms in the house, having them remodeled to accommodate wheelchair users is a great way to become independent. There many improvements that can be done to these rooms such as:
- Lowering countertops
- Lowering appliances
- Lowering sinks
- Install proper flooring
Are You Looking to Improve Your Home?
If you’re ready to make your home more accessible, you need to head to a mobility equipment store in Maryland, such as Freedom Mobility. Our certified aging-in-place specialists can work with you and your family to find and implement home improvements that will enhance your life. If you live in central Maryland or a surrounding area, we’ll work with you to improve your home. Contact us or visit us today to see how we can help you!