6 Ways to Make Your Home More Accessible for Wheelchair Users

Monday, July 31st, 2023, 5:18 pm , Posted by MED +

Creating a more accessible home for wheelchair users not only enhances their mobility and independence but also promotes inclusivity and comfort for all occupants. Most homes are not designed for people with wheelchairs, making it challenging to get in and out and move around. Making your home more wheelchair accessible can help you thrive and live comfortably.
Below, we’ve put together a list of 6 ways to make your home wheelchair-friendly:

Install Ramps and Lifts

Remove barriers to entry by installing ramps at all entrances and exits to your home. Ramps provide smooth access for wheelchair users without the need to navigate stairs. Additionally, if your home has multiple levels, consider installing a stairlift or home elevator to enable easy movement between floors.

See our collection of wheelchair ramps.

Widening Doorways and Hallways

Ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchair dimensions. Standard doorways may need to be expanded to at least 32 inches wide to allow comfortable passage for wheelchairs. This modification provides greater freedom of movement throughout the house.

Adapt Bathrooms

Bathrooms are critical spaces to make accessible. Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub area to provide stability and support. Consider replacing traditional tubs with roll-in showers equipped with built-in benches, handheld showerheads, and no curbs for easy wheelchair access. Lowering the sink height and providing knee space beneath it also facilitates wheelchair users’ independence.

See our collection of bathroom safety products.

Accessible Kitchen

Make your kitchen more user-friendly for wheelchair users by ensuring lower countertops and sinks, providing space beneath the sink for wheelchair access, and installing pull-out shelves and drawers for easy reach. Consider adjustable or pull-down cabinets to allow wheelchair users to access upper storage areas.

Smooth Flooring and Nonslip Surfaces

Replace thick carpets or rugs with smooth, low-pile flooring to facilitate easy wheelchair movement. Nonslip surfaces are crucial in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens to reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, ensure thresholds are level or gently ramped to avoid tripping hazards.

Inclusive Furniture Arrangement

Arrange furniture to create open pathways that allow for smooth wheelchair navigation throughout the home. Avoid clutter and ensure there’s enough space to turn and maneuver comfortably.

Consulting with a professional accessibility expert can provide valuable insights into designing a fully accessible home tailored to specific needs. Always remember to prioritize safety, comfort, and inclusivity when making modifications to ensure a welcoming and accommodating living environment for everyone, regardless of their mobility.

Looking to make your home more accessible? Check out our wide selection of accessibility products. Have questions? Don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll happily help you with all your product and service needs.

Read More From Our Blog

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Through Floor Elevators: What Are They & How Are They Used

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