If you have a family member with a physical disability, you’ve likely had to make some adjustments to your home to accommodate them. But even if you haven’t had to deal with this firsthand, there are things you can do to make your home more accessible and comfortable for someone who is physically disabled. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the ways you can make your home perfect for your loved ones.
Family collaboration and support are crucial for creating a welcoming and inclusive home environment. This collaborative approach begins with open communication and a genuine understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by your loved one with a physical disability. By fostering a spirit of cooperation within the family, you can identify areas in the home that may require modification or improvement, such as installing ramps, widening doorways, or rearranging furniture to enhance mobility. Furthermore, you can seek community support and the help of professional disability groups and care providers.
For instance, registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) providers, such as Active Ability, offer mobile therapy services to families with members who have physical disabilities. They aim to facilitate individuals in achieving their therapy goals and enhancing their overall well-being. This includes conducting thorough assessments of the individual’s needs and collaborating closely with the individual and their family to establish achievable goals. They assess the home environment for safety and accessibility and recommend mobility aids and home modifications to enhance independence.
One important thing to keep in mind is that each person with a physical disability will have different needs. What works well for one person may not work well for another. So take the time to get to know your family member and their specific needs before making any changes to your home. With that said, here are some general tips on how to adjust your home for someone with a physical disability:
Invest in a Home Lift
If your home has more than one level, the best way to make it accessible for someone with a physical disability is to install a home lift. This will allow them to move between floors without having to rely on others for help. This can be a real lifesaver, especially if your loved one is unable to walk or has limited mobility. Not only will a home lift make your home more accessible, but it will also give your loved one a sense of independence.
When choosing a home lift, be sure to get one that is durable and easy to operate. And if your loved one is in a wheelchair, Trio Wheelchair Home Lift can accommodate a full-sized wheelchair, so it’s worth considering. Other factors you may want to keep in mind include the weight capacity of the lift and the warranty. Just be sure to find a reputable dealer who can help you select the right home lift for your needs.
Widen Doorways and Hallways
If your doorways and hallways are too narrow, it can make it difficult for someone in a wheelchair or with limited mobility to get around. So, one of the best things you can do to make your home more accessible is to widen these spaces. This may require some construction work, but it will be well worth it in the end. You may also want to consider installing automatic doors, which can be opened with just the push of a button. This will make it even easier for your loved one to get around.
Also, if you have any steps leading into your home, be sure to install a ramp. This will allow your loved one to enter and exit your home without any difficulty. Just be sure that the ramp is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair and that it has a non-slip surface.
Make Your Bathrooms Accessible
Another area of the home that you’ll need to focus on is the bathroom. This is one of the most important rooms in the house for someone with a physical disability, so it’s important to make sure it’s as accessible as possible. Some of the things you can do to achieve this include installing grab bars, a handheld showerhead, and a raised toilet seat. You may also want to add a non-slip mat in the bathtub or shower.
if you have more than one bathroom in your home, be sure to make at least one of them wheelchair accessible. This means widening the doorways and hallways, as well as installing grab bars and a handheld showerhead. You may also want to consider adding a sink that can be used from a seated position or adding a walk-in tub. Not only will this make life easier for your loved one, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that they can safely use the bathroom without any assistance.
Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are a must-have in any home that is accommodating someone with a physical disability. These bars can be installed in the bathroom, near the bed, or anywhere else they might be needed. They provide support and stability for someone who has difficulty standing or walking. And if your loved one is in a wheelchair, grab bars can help them transfer in and out of their chair with ease.
While installing grab bars, be sure to use ones that are made of a durable material and can support the weight of your loved one. The best grab bars are usually made of stainless steel or brass. And if you’re not sure where to install them, just ask your contractor for guidance.
Install Smart Home Devices
If you’re looking for ways to make your home even more accessible, consider installing some smart home devices. These devices can be controlled with just the push of a button and can make life much easier for someone with a physical disability. For example, you can install a smart thermostat that can be controlled from a wheelchair or an automated light switch that can be turned on and off with just the touch of a button
You can also install a smart doorbell that allows your loved one to see who is at the door without having to get up. And if you have a security system, you can add motion sensors that will allow your loved one to move around freely without setting off the alarm. There are endless possibilities when it comes to smart home devices, so be sure to talk to your contractor about which ones would be best for your needs.
Conclusion
Fostering an inclusive home environment for a family member with physical disabilities is important. Families must ensure open communication, collaboration, and thoughtful modifications, prioritizing the unique needs of people with disabilities. Seek professional guidance when necessary and continually adapt your home to provide them with the utmost independence and comfort.
