Sadly, many people living with a disability are being forced to sleep in the living room or to wash daily in the kitchen instead of the bathroom. If you or someone you love are living with a disability, you might understand first-hand how frustrating this can be.
Fortunately, there are some small changes you can make to improve a person’s daily life. Find out how to make your home more accessible for those living with a disability or mobility condition.
Replace Your Door Handles
Door knobs can be problematic for a person living with a dexterity issue or arthritis. For this reason, you should replace the door knobs for lever handles, which are often much easier to operate for everyone within the home.
Install Two-Way Light Switches
Most people do not think twice about turning a light on or off, but it can be a big issue for someone living with a disability. After turning on a light in their bedroom, they might need to turn off the light once it is time for bed, so will need to walk in the dark. Two-way lighting can, therefore, minimize risks of bumps or falls within the home, as a person can simply turn on the light as they enter the room, and switch off the same light by their bedside to enjoy a great night’s sleep.
Apply for a Disabled Facility Grant
A Disabled Facility Grant will provide financial assistance for the installation of a walk-in shower or bath, ramp, or wider doors, plus more. You are eligible to apply if you are a homeowner or tenant of the property that needs to be modified. You must also plan to live at the property for a minimum of five years. Visit Bathing Solutions to find out more.
Choose Adjustable Shelving
Adjustable shelving can help those with a disability to live with more independence and dignity, as they will not be dependent on another person to gain access to everyday items. Pull-out shelving is also another superb option for kitchens shelves, and this is often a useful alternative for wheelchair users.
Incorporate Low Platform Kitchens
It might potentially be unsafe for some disabled people to chop, cook, and clean on a tall kitchen countertop. Low platform kitchens can, therefore, help wheelchair users cook with ease in the comfort of their kitchen, so they will spend more time enjoying their home.
Secure Double Handrails
Handrails on both sides of stairs can provide greater support for disabled homeowners or tenants. Extensions of handrails beyond the staircase steps can also guide the elderly or a person living with a visual impairment, so they will not trip on steps and can securely climb stairs.
Create Wider Doorways
Tight doorways can make it difficult for wheelchair users to move from A to B within their property. Installing wider doorways can improve daily life, but remember, there needs to not only be enough space for them to move through the door, but they will also need enough room to turn a wheelchair around.
