An estimated 19 million people have some mobility difficulty, making it necessary to make the home a more comfortable place. Even a simple repaint can lift the spirits of a homes’ occupants, but sometimes decoration must evolve into adaptation. Have a look at some of the ways you can adapt your home to make it more accessible to all.
Storage Solutions
Reaching to grab something from your cupboards may have become second nature, but a member of your family might need some assistance with this. Lowering your storage cupboards can make life easier on everyone and ensure that family members can assist in the home.
As there are around 2.7 million wheelchair users in the US, a simple adaptation like lowering cupboards and storage space can make a huge difference. Lowering work surfaces in the kitchen can also be beneficial.
Support Bars
Cerebral palsy affects motor skills, muscle movement and muscle tone; therefore home adaptations can significantly improve quality of life for a family member living with this condition.
According to the Cerebral Palsy Family Network, networking with other families can give you valuable insights into ways to cope: seeking advice from others in your network will give you ideas for helpful adaptations you can make around the home.
A few simple additions to the home can make it accessible, but can also provide other benefits. Adding some support bars can assist when walking, particularly in larger homes with more open space.
These can also help when going for a bath, going to the bathroom, and getting out of bed. Physiotherapy has been shown to improve motor skills in children with cerebral palsy; therefore support bars may assist with this.
Smart Homes
Tiredness and fatigue are common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. Smart technology is ideal for any family members who are finding it difficult to get to the door or finding it exhausting to maneuver around the home.
Voice controlled technology and fixtures, such as lightbulbs, can help those with fatigue to turn the lights on and off without moving when feeling tired.
Additionally, smart doorbells can allow you to see who is at the door and whether you need to answer it, and can even let you speak with visitors to let them know if you are feeling fatigued or need some assistance.
Adapted homes are stylish, contemporary and accessible to those with various needs. Small additions can make a huge difference to residents and to visitors.