Whether you have a family member who is wheelchair-bound or if you are simply planning for your golden years, making your home handicap accessible can be a wise decision. While some things can only be done in the initial building of the home, some things can be remodeled to be friendlier for wheelchair access and to reduce fall risk.
Initial Home Design
If you are building a new home, you have much more control over the initial design being handicap accessible than if you are remodeling. Try to avoid stairs as much as possible, and if you do have stairs, try to keep essential rooms on the main floor. This means that ideally your kitchen, bathroom and bedroom would be downstairs.
Bathroom Remodel
The bathroom is a common spot for the elderly to fall due to slipping in the tub or shower. Consider installing walk-in showers or walk-in tubs St Charles in your home. These will be essential in helping prevent falls and could potentially increase the value of your home. If you ever choose to sell, you can advertise that your bathrooms are completely handicap accessible.
Handicap Aids
There are some simple aids that can be installed throughout your home that can make a big difference. Bars can be installed that help you lift yourself when getting up from a chair or the bathtub. Rubber treads can be added to stairs to make them more fall resistant or a chair lift can be installed to take you up and down the stairs safely.
In order to make your house handicap friendly, you can choose to undergo a major redesign of your home or simply add some extra aids for your use. Either way, preparing for the future and accommodating handicap family members is a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones.