How to Make Your Home More Handicap Accessible: A Quick Guide

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happy family with disabled little daughter in wheelchair spending time together at home

Are you looking to make your home more handicap accessible so you or a loved one with reduced mobility can stay in your home instead of going to an assisted living home?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most simple ways you can improve accessibility for handicapped individuals in your household.

Remove Common Barriers in the Home

There are many ways to make your home more handicap friendly. A guide to removing common barriers in the home is to start by examining all entryways.

Make sure there are no raised thresholds or small steps that could cause someone to trip. All doors should have handles that are easy to grip, and if possible, automatic openers.

Once inside, hallways and doorways should be wide enough to accommodate many types of wheelchair ramps. If not, consider installing offset hinges to widen the opening, all flooring should be level and slip-resistant.

Remove any area rugs or throw rugs that could cause someone to trip.

Use Technology to Support Accessibility

There are types of equipment on the market that can help make homes handicap-accessible for those with disabilities. Some of these products include stairlifts that can be used to provide access to the staircase for those who cannot use the stairs.

Elevators can be used to provide access to the upper levels of your home. It may also include automatic doors that can be used to provide access inside and outside of your home.

Specialized telephones can be used that is equipped with features that make them more accessible for those with disabilities.

Consider the Needs of All Family Members

By taking some time to consider the needs of all family members, you can make home improvements for a more comfortable and safe place for everyone. This includes choosing the right location for your home, as well as the right type of home and the right type of modifications.

If you or someone in your family is hearing or visually impaired, you can make your home more accessible by installing special lighting and alarms.

You can also get special telephones that have amplified sound to make it easier for those with hearing impairment to communicate.

Maintain or Improve the Home’s Value

A few simple changes can make a big difference in both the safety and value of your home. Install grab bars in the bathroom. This will provide support for those with limited mobility.

Make sure all doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Ensure that all flooring is slip-resistant and that there are no trip hazards.

Make Your Home More Handicap Accessible Now

If you are living with a disability, making your home more handicap accessible is a top priority. There are a few quick and easy ways to do this, and we’ve outlined them for you here.

By following these tips, you can make your home a more comfortable and safe place for all.

Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blog for more!