Top Tips For Modifying Your Home For A Disabled Relative

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As the population ages, more and more of us are finding that a family member or beloved friend requires adaptation to their home so that they can live comfortably and safely.

Whether you’re a homeowner or real estate representative, making sure that your space is not only accessible but also comfortable for individuals with impairments is of utmost importance. The good news is there are many ways to easily modify an existing structure in order to provide accommodating accessibility solutions; the key is knowing what steps to take and where to start. That’s why we have created this guide on ‘Top Tips For Modifying Your Home For A Disabled Relative’ – it provides essential information on how best to make modifications when caring for a disabled loved one at home!

Tips For Modifying Your Home For A Disabled Relative

Identify Safety Issues in Your Home and Determine the Most Effective Solutions

When preparing your home for a disabled relative, it is important to consider all of the safety issues that may arise within their environment.

Identifying any potential dangers should be your first step, as this will ensure that you are aware of the necessary solutions to modify your home for the best comfort and security of your loved one.

Take the time to inspect any areas where mobility may be a challenge, like stairs or doorways, and consider whether modifications such as ramps or widened entryways would be most useful. Ultimately, ensuring an accessible and safe living space forms the foundation of creating an inviting place for a disabled family member to live.

Consider Investing in Features Such as a Ramp, Adjustable Furniture, and Grab Bars 

When you’re modifying your home to better accommodate a disabled family member, there are several features that can make life easier and more comfortable.

Ramps at all entries and exits are essential for ease of movement, as well as adjustable furniture like chairs or beds that can be raised, lowered, or tilted for maximum mobility and comfort. 

Grab bars in bathrooms and kitchens also provide the necessary support to move around more freely. Namely, stairlifts are a great solution for those who need assistance in the home, as they allow users to access different levels with ease.

Whether you run into acorn stairlifts reviews, or you find another brand, the best way to make sure you’re getting the most suitable lift for your home is to do proper research ahead of time. See which features you need and find out which one makes the most sense for your home.

Install Extra Lighting to Help With Visibility and Mobility

When you’re home modifying for a disabled relative, lighting can be key for ensuring visibility and mobility.

Making sure every room is adequately lit should be at the top of your priority list. Installing extra lights in places like staircases, hallways, and bathrooms can be especially helpful. Y

ou can also use natural light to your advantage to make pathways and areas more visible throughout the day.

Aim for even lighting and consider motion-sensing products when appropriate to make it easier to get around your home with ease.

Make Sure Doorways are Wide Enough to Accommodate Wheelchairs or Walkers 

One of the most important steps necessary when modifying your home to accommodate a disabled relative is ensuring that all doorways are wide enough to fit wheelchairs and walkers.

It’s essential to make sure the desired device will be able to easily pass through a doorway and into other rooms, so focus on measuring door frames and getting specialized installation teams that can offer their advice if needed.

Not only will this help create a safe environment for your loved one, but it also provides them with the independence needed to feel as though they can explore their home fully.

Invest in Ergonomic Products to Reduce Strain on Joints and Muscles 

Investing in ergonomic products is one of the best decisions you can make when modifying your home for a disabled relative, as it can dramatically reduce strain on joints and muscles.

There are many ergonomic options available, from enhanced furniture to specially designed utensils and devices.

Taking into account the individual you’re caring for, research various products that may increase their comfort and safety as well as reduce the strain of everyday tasks.

Ergonomics can create a much-improved quality of life for your disabled relative, ultimately allowing them to live more comfortably and easily in their own home environment.

Don’t Forget About Bathrooms – Look Into Accessible Shower Designs and Bath Lifts for Elderly Individuals

When considering ways to make your home more accessible, don’t forget bathrooms! Accessible shower designs can help individuals with limited mobility safely maneuver, while bath lifts can provide a dependable and comfortable bathing experience for your elderly relative.

With the right modifications, an ordinary bathroom can be transformed into an essential tool for aiding those of all ages facing physical or cognitive impairments.

Be sure to investigate the range of solutions that may be suitable for you, from simple handrails to more luxurious additions like automated openers and heated surfaces – the possibilities are only limited by imagination.

Modifying your home to be more accommodating for a disabled relative can make all the difference in creating a safe and comfortable living environment.

While it may take some time, dedication, and money to remodel your home, understanding the importance of these modifications is an essential part of providing assistance for your relative. So take the time to do your research, talk with professionals, and invest in ergonomic products to ensure you’re doing everything you can to create a home that works for everyone. 

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.