If you or someone in your family has been injured, has a sudden disability, or has a debilitating illness where they’re going to need a wheelchair for support, then you may be wondering what lies ahead. There’s probably a lot going on right now, whilst you try to organize hospital appointments, desperately try to get your finances in order whilst also sorting out your social security disability payments – speak to these SSD lawyers in Erie, PA if you’re having issues with your SSD claim – all whist you and your family try to adjust to this new way of life.
One obstacle you may need to dedicate some thought to is the accessibility of your home. Not only will having a home that is wheelchair friendly make things like personal care and getting around much easier, but it also gives the wheelchair user freedom, independence and a much better quality of life! Just because they use a wheelchair, it doesn’t mean they can’t do things for themselves!
Thankfully, a wheelchair-friendly home doesn’t have to involve starting from scratch. Just a few straightforward adjustments to your current family home can make the world of difference and transform your property into a home where everyone is welcome. Read on for some simple ideas.
Think ramps
Are there steps leading up to your property? A simple solution is to have a ramp installed. A ramp with a handrail for extra support and safety as well as a non-slip surface is essential. That way even in wet weather it can be used with ease. Don’t forget the back door too!
Rethink your door systems
Often, traditional door frames are usually too narrow to accommodate wheelchairs, so having them replaced with wider frames will certainly make moving between rooms much easier. Especially if they can do this independently.
Alternatively, if your loved one needs a little help getting around, then why not consider installing a new automatic door system in your home? With the simple push of a button, your loved one can open and close doors as they go. These kinds of systems can even be controlled with a smartphone or a remote which they could carry with them around the home.
Changes in the bathroom
Personal care and hygiene are important, and when you’re living with a disability, having that freedom and independence to look after yourself is even more important. An accessible bathroom that can accommodate the needs of your loved one will make their life easier and improve the quality of their life. Lowered sinks, electric bath lifts, handrails, wet rooms, toilets and sinks that are sensor activated etc. The possibilities are endless.
And finally, the stairs
If you currently live in a home with more than one floor, don’t worry. Just because you or your loved one is in a wheelchair; it doesn’t mean they’re cut off from the rest of the house. Installing a stairlift or a platform where they can travel up the stairs with their wheelchair is a simple yet effective solution.