Millions of people across the United States and Canada are less mobile because of advanced age or disability. This means that there’s a good chance that you know someone with decreased mobility. If someone is moving into your house with decreased mobility, then you can prepare to make life easier and safer for them at home.
#1 Get a Ramp
Having a wheelchair ramp can be very helpful for a person with decreased mobility. Consider installing one near the entrance of your home to your door for easy access on a wheelchair. If the visitor is coming temporarily, then you can invest in a portable ramp. These are made of aluminum and can be folded for storage. However, they’re not as handy as a permanent ramp.
When building a permanent ramp, consider the following factors:
- The type of mobility device that will be used on the ramp
- The best entrance to the house with the least obstacles
- The local zoning requirements
- The material used for the ramp
- Your budget
- The type of contractor you’ll need
- Your insurance plans
#2 Get an Evacuation Chair
If you live in a multi-story home, then invest in a stair chair. Not only will this help a person with reduced mobility go down the stairs, but it can be a vital tool in the case of an emergency. Check out Evacuscape to learn more about chairs with a lightweight design, high loadbearing capacity, a fail-safe braking system, and a ten-year warranty.
Anyone can learn how to use these chairs. They are bundled with an easy-to-follow training DVD. You can also visit the website for demonstration videos in English and French.
#3 Modify the Yard
Many people with decreased mobility enjoy spending time in the yard to get a break from the monotony of home. You can make it easier for them by having your landscaper clear the yard of obstacles such as buses and tall grass. You may also consider adding steppingstones to help your guest pass through.
#4 Check the Doorways
People with impaired physical mobility can find it challenging to pass through doorways because of the flooring edge lips that help keep the door closed. Consider covering them with threshold ramps to reduce the chances of an accident. People on wheelchairs can also pass more easily over these.
#5 Modify the Bathrooms
Your guest with reduced mobility needs to be able to use the bathroom safely. Consider adding a shower grab handrail to help them stabilize during a bath or a shower. Likewise, add a non-slip shower mat with a strong grip to the bathtub for similar reasons. Alternatively, you can try a stick-on non-slip strip or a non-slip spray treatment.
Add an adjustable hand-held shower head with a shower seat to allow them to shower more conveniently and safely. Make sure that the bathroom has a night light that automatically turns on when the lights are dim or turned off.
Follow these five tips to make your home safer for a guest with impaired mobility. A little effort beforehand can give them more independence and help them enjoy their stay at your home.