Homes aren’t usually designed with the needs of people with limited mobility in mind. But when such needs arise, it’s recommended to begin with kitchen and bathroom renovation as well as modifications to entrances and stairways. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for improving accessibility in a residential home, but here are a few tips from DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park to give you an idea of where you can get started!
Modify Your Home for One-Level Living
Multiple floors can be challenging for people with limited mobility. Navigating the stairs to reach bedrooms or other living spaces on upper floors can be physically demanding, and it also increases the risk of accidents. That said, you might want to consider making adjustments to the first floor so that it can accommodate all daily needs.
Make Height Adjustments
Ask your home remodeling contractor to adjust the height of outlets, switches and the thermostat in your home. Ensure that these can all easily be reached by someone who is in a wheelchair or who has limited mobility. For example, consider raising electrical outlets to 18 inches instead of 12 inches and lowering light switches from 48 inches to 42 inches.
Aside from outlets and switches, you can also lower sinks, countertops and cabinets. Replace doorknobs with levered door handles and install touch-sensitive faucets, which are quite helpful to people with limited use of their hands or arms.
Install Grab Bars
This is recommended in bathrooms to avoid or minimize fall hazards. Grab bars should be placed at crucial locations including the back and sides of the shower, tub and toilet.
Expand Doorways
Average-width doorways often present a problem for wheelchair and walker users. To make these transitions more accessible, expand doorways to 36 inches wide and use off-set hinges to make it easier to enter and exit living spaces.
Other Safety Precautions
Consider installing temperature-controlled shower and tub fixtures as well as sink faucets with anti-scald valves. Adding a telephone jack or a medical response device in the bathroom can also be great to enable one to call for help in case of emergency.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park offers the best interior remodeling services in the area. We only use quality materials to ensure your complete satisfaction. Call us at (708) 320-3417 or fill out our contact form to start a conversation! We serve homeowners in Chicago’s southwest suburbs.
