If you have an elderly or physically disabled family member, we suggest that you do consider home improvement tips in Coeur d’Alene to create a more accessible space for your family as well as provide safety. Doing this intervention will not only allow the family member with specific needs to have more privacy but also restore the social meanings of your homes and save more in long-term paid residential care services.
How to Modify Your Home for Family Members with Physical Disabilities
People with limited mobility find it more difficult to go about their daily lives than those who can move freely. So to make it easier for them to move around the house without being assisted, here are some home remodeling ideas to equip them.
- Stairlifts or Ramps
Some porches have stairs leading to the front door , and this can be a problem for people with bad knees or in wheelchairs. But with ramps, it’ll be easier for them to get in and out of the house anytime. On the other hand, automatic stairlifts can make it easier for them to get to the house’s upper level without using the stairs.
- Widening Doorways
A standard doorway is usually too narrow for an electric or normal wheelchair to get through. By widening your doorways, you’ll allow mobility aid users to steer from room to room without help.
- Brighter Lighting
You can increase visibility for the elderly members of your family through brighter lighting. It will also help them to locate objects better or read appliances and prints. Brighter lighting will also improve visibility at night, which can lessen possible fall risks for seniors.
- Stair Railings
People with mobility disabilities have difficulty balancing and are at high risk of falling. Having sturdy stair railings at home can assist them to walk and navigate up and down the stairs safely.
- Roll-under Sinks
– Roll-under sinks are among the home improvement ideas in Coeur d’Alene that feature a compartment beneath to allow more legroom for wheelchair users. They will no longer need to get out of their chairs to access sinks, vanities, and counter spaces around their home.
- Shower Seats
Shower seats for elders, those with knee problems and those who are unable to stand will make it easier and safer for them when taking a bath. You can either purchase a removable freestanding shower seat, or you can hire a contractor to create a built-in shower seat.
- Non-slip Surfaces and Materials
Many people, disabled or not, slip in the bathroom and break their hips or ankles. As a solution, you can either install non-slip mats, tapes, and such or you can hire a professional to remodel your bathroom.
- Adjustable Beds
Senior citizens and loved ones with mobility issues may find it useful to have an adjustable bed. For those who require special equipment at night, being able to raise or lower the bed can make getting in and out of it easier. It also promotes better ergonomic sleeping patterns.
- Lowered Countertops and Cabinets
Lower kitchen cupboards and countertops may allow people with limited mobility to access food, dishes, and other kitchen necessities.. This will allow them to eat and cook independently.
- Take Out Any Obstruction-Causing Furniture
Moving around places with mobility aids like a wheelchair or walker can be difficult , especially in crowded or blocked walkways. A living room that is safely accessible must have unobstructed passageways and uncluttered furniture.
What to Do?
Implementing some of the aforementioned home improvement ideas in your home in Coeur d’Alene will bring a huge relief to loved ones with limited mobility. If you’re planning to remodel your home, hire a professional who’s fully licensed, skilled, and insured like us in Gallagher Construction.
Give us a call today so we can make plans for your home remodeling project and set an estimate!
