Physical impairment appears to be something that can only happen to certain people; however, it can affect anyone, no matter what the cause, whether it’s an accident or a disease like cancer, or simply the natural aging process. In many cases, individuals find that their homes need modifications to accommodate their disability to return the following hospitalization or to remain there in the long run. Here’s what you should know when renovating a home for people with disabilities.
How Can I Make My House Accessible?
The possibilities are endless to make your residence more accessible, like the types of disabilities that require adjustments. Here are some suggestions to consider when you tackle remodeling your Ottawa home for people with disabilities, especially for those in a wheelchair. These are also useful when you decide to purchase the home of your dreams that has a barrier-free layout.
Removing or Modifying Steps at the Entry
The first obstacle that a person with disabilities faces is getting inside the home. A person with a disability may need an alternate entrance, such as through the back or garage if you have stairs leading to your front door. If you don’t, you’ll need to build a ramp or another means for wheelchairs to be able to enter the home.
Access the First-Floor Bathroom
If you have a person in your home that is disabled or has a disability, you’ll have to relocate to a one-story house or put a bathroom or bedroom downstairs to avoid the requirement for stairs. In modern, two-story homes, the majority of the “living” areas – which is the place where you sleep and shower and bathroom – are upstairs. Also, make sure you have a bedroom.
Widen the hallways and doorways
Opening up your hallways and doorways might be necessary to enable wheelchair access to your home. The ideal doors will be a minimum of 36″ wide. While you’re there, examine your flooring to make sure that it’s smooth to make it easier to move around or replace carpet with wood, linoleum, or tiles. Get rid of throw rugs and hall liners to ensure they won’t “grab” strollers or wheelchairs. It is a sensible option, as they could be risky, causing falls and slips for those with mobility issues.
Retrofit the Bathroom
Bathrooms can be the most challenging space to access but possible. Start by installing grab bars next to the toilet to make moving between the bathroom and the chair easier. Add the roll-in shower or one with an elongated lip that doesn’t require a massive step to access – with the second set of grab-able handles.
Ensure Adequate Lighting
Dim lighting can be a danger for anyone living in a house, especially those who are disabled. Be sure to have a solid overhead light that can be turned on by the flick of a switch or, even better, using voice-activated commands.
Consider All the Obstacles
When moving around the house, look for areas where wheelchairs may have difficulty, such as high cabinets or tables that block paths. Find out what items are safe to leave in the same condition with a few adjustments.
Ottawa Home Pros specializes in home renovations and home improvements in the Ottawa area. Call us now at (613) 288-9145 or email us at info@ottawahomepros.com for more information.
