Home Renovations to Benefit All Physical Abilities

Few people want to think about becoming physically incapacitated by an injury or illness. However, these things can happen, even to the healthiest of people. Retrofitting a home to be accessible to all ages and abilities is something one might want to consider when embarking on home renovations.

A physical disability brought on by age, illness or an injury can likely require some changes being made at home to facilitate movement and comfort by the disabled individual. Many projects can easily be done by a do-it-yourselfer or hired out to a contractor as a short-term assignment. Also, many of these renovations are affordable and can be started immediately.

Entryway

A well-lit entryway is a must in all situations, and provides safety upon entering the home. If you don't want to have an outdoor light on at all times, a motion-activated light can help.

Repair any cracks in pavers or missing portions of the entryway to remove trip hazards. If your entryway is difficult to maneuver from the street or driveway, consider a different layout to make the trip to the front door easier.

A self-installed ramp of sturdy wood placed over an existing staircase with non-skid treads can fit the bill for a wheelchair ramp. For something more aesthetically appealing and permanent, meet with a contractor to discuss options. Look for an individual with Certified Aging in Place Specialization (CAPS) to ensure the modifications are done safely and up to code.

Bathroom

Round the edges on all countertops and corners to minimize impact injuries. Also, consider changing the countertops to a higher contrast color from the cabinets for easier visual recognition.

Install a walk-in tub or shower that is outfitted with dual showerheads, one at regular height and one that will service a person in a seated position. Make sure the shower valves have anti-scald options.

Consider changing one vanity set-up to a lower height so that a wheelchair can roll underneath.

Bedroom

Make sure someone in a walker, wheelchair or with balance issues is moved to a first-floor bedroom. If the home is not equipped as such, renovate a living space to serve as a bedroom for this individual.

Be sure there is ample room next to the bed for a walker or wheelchair. Change the flooring of this room to wood, tile or linoleum so that tripping or obstruction of a wheelchair is reduced.

Wire the room with phone, cable and possibly an intercom so that the disabled individual can easily be in contact with others.

Kitchen

Make the effort to widen traffic areas to facilitate passage by a wheelchair, scooter or walker.

Change floors to cork or bamboo, which may be softer should a slip or fall occur.

Lower the height of prep areas and cabinets for easy access.

Be sure the table is at the correct height to accommodate a roll-under wheelchair.

Living Spaces

Remove excess clutter and change the flooring for easy maneuverability around the room.

Mounting the television on a wall. This enables you to remove a bulky entertainment center or television console for even more space.

Create smooth transitions between rooms by removing the saddle of molding or decorative flooring accents to prevent trips and snags.