7 Home Renovation Ideas for the Elderly and the Mobility Challanged

Your home may be your sanctuary, a place you retreat to and relax regularly. But unfortunately, as we all age, our comfort zones are shrinking. The older we get, the more fragile our bodies can become and the more difficult it is to maintain our homes.

The stairs may now seem too high, the hallways too long, and a simple task like washing the dishes as easy as it used to be. To help you age gracefully in your own home, here are seven home renovation tips for the elderly and mobility challenged to help improve your quality of life.

1. Lower the Stairs If you can’t walk up or down a flight of stairs, installing an elevator in your home is one option. Another is installing a rolling staircase with handrails. However, if you are both able and willing to make the adjustments necessary to make the stairs more accessible for yourself, consider lowering the steps on your stairs rather than purchasing an elevator. Doing so can be safer because there is always less risk of falling within an elevator than without railings.
2. Think Wide, Not Tall Install shorter handrails on the staircase to make it more comfortable for you. Another option is to widen the staircase but keep the same height of handrails at the top and bottom. This way, you’ll still be able to see over your head as you walk down and up the stairs.
3. Accommodate a Wheelchair If you can make modifications, consider installing ramps at the bottom and top of your staircase. The ramp at the bottom will help you pass under your doorway as you enter the home and will also provide a level surface for vehicles to drive on if you have one. The ramp at the top can let you comfortably get in or out of your home without lifting yourself using the railing.
4. Consider a Curbless Shower A curbless shower is a much safer shower option for those who are disabled because there are few, if any, raised surfaces to slip and fall on. What used to be a raised curb on your tub is now level with the rest of the floor. When combined with a handheld showerhead, you’ll be able to bathe yourself in total comfort.
5. Consider Assistive Technology If you have broken your leg or some other debilitating condition has prevented you from getting out of bed for an extended time, consider installing a bedside lift system or electric recliner. Both will make it easier to get in and out of bed and even sit up when you need to watch television or read a book.
6. Install Enclosure Rugs If you are trying to walk around your home without as much pain and stiffness, consider installing rugs that fit the floor and do not fray easily, making them great for soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, and hardwood floors.

There you have it; 6 home renovations to make life as an elderly or disabled individual much easier.

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At Accessibility Home Improvement, we focus on providing our customers with the home renovation services they need to increase the value of their homes while improving their quality of life.

We are committed to providing the highest quality service available in St Charles County and the surrounding areas. We would be very glad to give you a free quote if you are looking for a company to offer exceptional handicap home remodeling services. Call us today!