According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 1 billion people worldwide live with a disability. 4.4 million of them live in Australia. Yet, many homes still don’t have the necessary modifications to ensure their lives are simplified and inclusive. Simple tips like installing shower railings and removing unnecessary doors can be simple ways to elevate your home to become more accessible. Read on to find the detailed guide on how to achieve this with 7 tips that are easily implemented.
Creating an accessible home is not just about complying with regulations; it's about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can live comfortably and independently. Accessible housing refers to homes that are designed or modified to accommodate individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. This includes features like wider doorways, ramps, grab bars, and other modifications that enhance accessibility.
In today's world, where inclusivity is gaining more recognition, making your home accessible is crucial. It not only enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities but also adds value to your property. In this step-by-step guide, we'll explore seven detailed tips to help you make your home more accessible, along with examples to illustrate each point.
7 Detailed Tips to Make Your Home More Accessible:
1. Encouraging Entryways:
Start by examining your entryways to ensure they're accessible to everyone. This might involve installing ramps for wheelchair access, ensuring pathways are clear and well-lit, and adding handrails for stability. For instance, consider replacing steps with a gently sloping ramp to the entrance. If you do not wish to replace them, it is always possible to have them on a side that is close to the door.
In instances where there are dips in the floor (like in the bathrooms or kitchens), have smaller ramps or some sort of support to allow for wheelchairs or people with walking difficulties. Moreover, make sure that the doors and ramps are wide enough. To paint an idea about the side of the entryways, a standard doorway is typically 32 inches wide but expanding it to 36 inches can make a significant difference in ease of movement.
2. Beckoning Bathrooms:
Bathrooms can be challenging spaces for individuals with mobility issues. Make them more accessible by installing grab bars near the toilet and shower, opting for a walk-in or roll-in shower with a bench, and ensuring there's enough space for manoeuvrability. Installing lever-style faucets and handheld showerheads can also enhance usability. It is also a good idea to keep any shelves or platforms nailed to the wall to avoid any chances of injuries.
3. User-Friendly Kitchens:
In the kitchen, prioritise accessibility by ensuring that countertops, sinks, and appliances are at a suitable height for wheelchair users. Consider installing pull-out shelves and drawers for easier access to items and opting for lever-style handles on cabinets and faucets for ease of use. It may also be encouraging to have appliances that are not too heavy or difficult to open and close. Adjustable countertops are a great option for households with individuals of varying heights.
4. Comfortable Bedrooms:
Bedrooms should be designed with comfort and accessibility in mind. Ensure there's ample space around the bed for manoeuvring mobility aids and consider installing adjustable bed heights for easier transfer. Additionally, choose furniture with rounded edges to prevent injuries.
5. Thoughtful Technology:
Embrace technology to make your home more accessible. Smart home devices, such as voice- activated assistants, automated lighting, and smart thermostats, can greatly enhance independence for individuals with disabilities by allowing them to control various aspects of their environment with ease. This technology allows for more independent living and greater control over the home environment.
6. Functional Flooring and Lighting:
Pay attention to flooring and lighting to enhance safety and accessibility. Choose non-slip flooring surfaces to reduce the risk of falls and ensure that lighting is bright and evenly distributed throughout the home. Consider adding motion-activated lights in hallways and bathrooms for added convenience.
Moreover, clear pathways throughout your home by removing clutter, rugs, and furniture that may obstruct the flow of movement. This allows individuals with mobility aids to move freely and safely throughout the space.
7. Flexible Future:
Lastly, think about future needs when making accessibility modifications. As individuals age or their mobility changes, their requirements may evolve. Designing with adaptability in mind can save time and money in the long run.
Conclusion:
Creating an accessible home is not only about physical modifications but also about fostering inclusivity and independence for all. By following these seven detailed tips, you can make your home more welcoming and functional for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges.
Remember, accessibility is a journey, not a destination. It's essential to continually assess and adapt your home to meet changing needs. And for those seeking accessible housing options, platforms like HousingNet provide a convenient solution. With hundreds of accessible, lovely homes to choose from, HousingNet empowers individuals to find a home that meets their unique needs.
Join HousingNet today and take a step towards empowering your living. With a wide range of accessible housing options, HousingNet simplifies the process of finding a home that suits your needs. Browse our website today to learn more and start your journey towards accessible living.
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