AD – This is a collaborative post
Accessibility is hugely important to talk about and I think now more than ever, people are being vocal about the need for accessibility. Of course that’s always been the case but now, where social media is so prevalent and our voices can actually get HEARD, it’s the ideal time and place to talk about accessibility and the problems surrounding it as well.
Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash
I think we’ve all been in a situation where we’ve noticed accessibility problems. Either with ourselves or with a friend or loved one. Going out for the day with a disabled friend and finding the locations un-accessible.
Or perhaps an elderly grandparent who struggles to get around due to health reasons. It’s incredibly common. So that does make you question why accessibility is such a problem in some areas, homes or buildings.
So today we’re going to look at some ways in which we can make our homes more accessible. This might be helpful if you have friends or family who are disabled who visit you regularly, elderly relatives who visit your house often and find some aspects of getting around difficult or maybe for yourself.
Whatever the case, here are some different ways to make your home more accessible. They pointers will vary is effectiveness and contain some smaller adjustments you can make as well as some bigger renovations which might be necessary given the circumstances.
For bigger adjustments like staircases, a quick Google search of “Staircases Glasgow” or wherever you’re from will bring up plenty of reputable companies, such as Abbott-Wade to assist you.
Having a ramp to get into the house
If your house has a lot of steps or perhaps a couple of steep steps leading up to the front door, then this could be one main and very obvious aspect of inaccessibility. Some houses are built now with level access to the front door which is great and a win-win for everyone. Even if you don’t need accessibility adjustments, it won’t affect you.
Add hand rails and grab bars where necessary
Perhaps up a staircase, near the back door, by the toilets and most definitely in the shower and bath. This is a pretty minor adjustment in the grand scheme of things but can make the world of difference. They help with stability and give that extra reassurance to those who need them.
Consider a home lift
This is obvious a pretty major renovation but it could completely change the game for those who need extra accessibility. Domestic house lifts are a smart investment to make every day life easier for those that need them. There are a ton of styles to choose from as well, so you can even have a luxury feel to your home lift!
Simply re-arrange for accessibility
This is a super easy but important way to increase accessibility in your home and that’s to just re-arrange things for accessibility purposes. Think about your kitchen cupboards and moving every day objects into a space that’s easy to reach (perhaps low down for a wheelchair user or somewhere that doesn’t require you to reach up high).
Consider changing doorknobs
Doorknobs can be difficult to use for some people with certain issues or for elderly people who may have arthritis. Door handles are much easier to grip and use, so if it’s possible, consider changing doorknobs. Don’t forget the faucets on your sinks too.
Clear the floor
Tripping hazards are a huge risk for those who need extra accessibility. Whether that’s with a wheelchair, a stick, a walker or even someone with reduced eyesight. Consider removing rugs and mats for them and ensure all areas of the floor in which you’d be walking are clear e.g no dog or kids toys left lying around!
Have a step in shower
Maneuvering over the bath can be a huge problem for those with accessibility problems. So if it’s someone who lives in your home or stays in your home regularly, you might want to re-think how your main bathroom is set up and consider a step in shower for their ease.
Do you have anything to add to this post? How would you make your home more accessible?