If you or a loved one has recently become dependent on a wheelchair, you may have noticed that your home is no longer easy to get around. Whether injury, illness, or age has introduced the wheelchair into your home, it may be time for a remodeling project to make your home more accessible. For elderly loved ones, this process can allow them the dignity of aging in place.
Turning your home into a wheelchair-accessible place may seem overwhelming, but these tips can help:
Hire a Seasoned Professional
You should never try to take on such a project without the help of an experienced professional. After all, you want to ensure that the structures you build are safe for your loved one. When you search for a contractor, be sure to find someone who has completed projects like this before.
Consider a Stairway Lift
Being wheelchair-bound does not have to keep someone on the ground level of your home. A professional contractor can install a lift that takes a person up and down stairways without trouble. This option is a cost-effective alternative to moving to a one-story place or keeping someone on just one floor of the home. Be sure to choose a lift model that works even if the house loses power, as this feature could be life-saving in an emergency.
Replace Plush Carpet
If you’ve been looking for a reason to replace that old, tall carpet, look no further. It is difficult for someone who is aging in place to get wheelchair across a high-pile carpet. Consider replacing it with wood, tile, or low-pile carpet. This small fix can make the house more accessible for all.
Remodel Your Bathroom
The bathroom can be the source of many problems for people in wheelchairs. You may consider hiring a professional to install a walk-in tub or other accessible bathing alternatives.
Whether you have an injured relative or someone who wants the dignity of aging in place, there are plenty of ways to make the home more comfortable for everyone.