According to the U.S. Census, one in five individuals has some kind of disability, from mobility to dexterity problems to hearing and vision loss. By age 65, these disabilities affect one in every two persons. Whether you wish to stay put and enjoy your golden years or have an elderly loved one who requires constant care and attention, it pays to consider remodeling your home with accessibility in mind.

If you are searching the internet for a “home remodeler near me,” keep DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown top-of-mind. Here is a simple checklist to serve as your guide when planning to make your home more accessible.

Bathroom Remodeling

The bathroom might arguably be the most highly utilized room in your home, but it can pose slip-and-fall hazards for anyone, especially a family member with a disability. Consider these essential modifications:

• Relocating light switches at a height that a person in a seated position can reach.
• Replacing a regular bathtub with the walk-in type or converting it into a walk-in shower.
• Equipping tubs and showers with grab bars, handheld showerheads, seating and non-slip flooring.
• Lowering sinks and countertops to benefit persons on wheelchairs.

Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen is also worth taking a look at when tackling mobility remodeling. Several modifications in this area of your home can sustain independent living despite physical disabilities. These include:

• Widening the aisles to accommodate mobility devices like wheelchairs and walkers.
• Choosing sinks that aren’t as deep as the standard ones.
• Upgrading to faucets with extended handles and spouts or those with electronic sensors for people with limited strength in using their hands.
• Replacing swinging cabinet doors with sliding ones.
• Installing cooktops and stoves at a height that allows someone in a seated position to use them.
• Lowering countertops from the standard 36-inch height to 30 inches.

Home Exteriors

The lack of an accessible entry and exit point prevents individuals with disabilities from moving around and enjoying independent living. Here are some ideas to consider when applying the concept of accessible design to your home’s exterior:

• Installing a ramp complete with guard rails on both sides for wheelchair access into the home.
• Widening driveways and walkways to allow car doors and sliding doors on passenger vehicles to be fully opened.
• Ensuring walkable surfaces are rough to prevent slips and falls.
• Putting shelves next to an entry door for sitting packages.

Let’s Start a Conversation!

All of these remodels are possible with Independence by Design™ from DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown! Our design professionals create safe and independent living spaces while fulfilling your individual needs. Whether it is an accessible kitchen or bathroom or ramps and lift systems, our design/build approach gives confidence in the finished project. Call us today at (717) 298-3830 for your kitchen quote or to schedule a conversation. We serve homeowners Elizabethtown and the surrounding areas, including Manheim, Bainbridge, Palmyra, Hummelstown and Middletown.