Making your home accessible for all family members is essential. As you age, it’s natural for your homes to become less accessible. Stairs become more challenging to climb, narrow doorways become harder to manoeuvre through, and small bathrooms can be challenging to use. To ensure everyone can move around and do what they need without issues. You can make a few different home investments to ensure this happens. Here are four of them.
1. Automatic Doors
One way to make your home more accessible is to install automatic doors. This can be especially helpful if you have family members who use wheelchairs or have difficulty opening doors. You don’t have to worry about fumbling with keys or handles. There are a few different types of automatic doors, so you’ll need to decide which one is best for your home.
The most common type is the power-operated door, which uses an electric motor to open and close the door. You could install a manual door opener if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. A button or lever activates this type of opener, and you push or pull the door to open it. Consider a voice-activated door opener if you have a visually impaired family member. This opener will open the door when it detects a voice command. You can also find doors opened by sensors, which is a good option if you have kids or pets.
2. Stair Lifts
If your home has stairs, you may want to invest in a stair lift. This can be a great way to make your home more accessible for family members who have difficulty climbing stairs. Stair lifts are also helpful if you have young children or babies, as you can use them to transport them up and down the stairs. They are also convenient for everyone, allowing you to move between floors without stairs. There are a few different stairlifts, so you’ll need to decide which one is best for your home.
The most common type is the straight stair lift, installed on a straight staircase. You’ll need to install a curved staircase lift if you have a curved staircase. You can also find chair lifts designed for people who use wheelchairs. When choosing a wheel chair lift, you need to consider a few things, such as the weight capacity, the type of wheelchair, and the height of the person. Also, make sure to read the reviews before purchasing a stair lift. It will help you find a quality product that meets your needs.
3. Ramps
Ramps provide full home access to family members who use wheelchairs or have difficulty climbing stairs. You can install ramps at the main entrance of your home and any patio or deck area. This way, everyone in your family can enjoy your outdoor space without worry. Ramps can be made from various materials, including wood, concrete, and metal. They can also be finished to match the aesthetic of your home. Ramps must be strong and stable to provide safe access for all. When choosing a ramp for your home, please consult a professional to ensure it meets all safety standards. The portable ramp is the most common, which can be moved around as needed. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you could install a fixed ramp. You can also find ramps designed for people who use wheelchairs.
4. Grab Bars
Grab bars are one of the simplest, most effective ways to make your home more accessible for everyone. Grab bars can be installed strategically around the house, such as next to the toilet, in the shower, or near the stairs. They provide sturdy support that can help people with limited mobility to maintain their balance and avoid falls. People can also use Grab bars as an extra safety measure when carrying out tasks that require exertion, such as moving heavy furniture or laundry baskets. Grab bars come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. You can choose grab bars that match the aesthetic of your home, or you can opt for more functional options that blend in with your décor. Consult with a professional to ensure that your grab bars are installed correctly and meet all safety standards.
Making your home more accessible doesn’t have to be a major overhaul. A few simple investments can make a big difference for family members who have difficulty getting around. By installing Grab bars, ramps, and stair lifts, you can ensure full home access for everyone. These improvements can also make your home more convenient for all family members. So, consider these options if you’re looking for ways to make your home more comfortable and accessible.
