Creating a more accessible home doesn’t have to be an expensive or overwhelming project. With thoughtful planning and affordable solutions, you can make your living space more welcoming for everyone, including those with mobility challenges or disabilities.
Whether you’re accommodating a loved one or planning for your future needs, this guide explores practical and budget-friendly ways to improve your home’s accessibility.
Let’s get started!
1) Rethink Doorways and Thresholds
Navigating through narrow doorways and high thresholds can be difficult for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. To address this, consider the following:
Widen Doorways
While a complete renovation to widen doorways can be costly, installing offset hinges (also known as swing-clear hinges) is a budget-friendly alternative. These hinges allow doors to open wider, providing extra clearance without major structural changes.
Threshold Ramps
Threshold ramps are an inexpensive and effective way to eliminate tripping hazards and make doorways wheelchair-friendly. These portable ramps are easy to install and can be moved as needed.
2) Install Grab Rails for Safety
Grab rails provide support and stability in key areas such as bathrooms, staircases, and hallways, making them a great addition to consider. Here are some options to consider:
- Bathroom rails
- Staircase rails
- Bedroom rails
- Door rails (inside and outside)
3) Improve Bathroom Accessibility
Bathrooms are a common area of concern when it comes to accessibility, but you can improve the accessibility of your home by utilising shower seats, shower mats, handheld showerheads and raised toilet seats. Read on to find out more.
Shower Seats and Mats
A foldable shower seat and non-slip mats enhance safety and comfort without the need for a full remodel. The seat provides a stable place to sit while showering, reducing the risk of falls, while non-slip mats prevent sliding on both the floor and inside the shower.
Handheld Showerheads
Switching to a handheld showerhead increases flexibility and ease of use. It allows users to adjust the water flow and direction, making showering more accessible for those with limited mobility or strength. Many models offer adjustable settings for customisable comfort.
Raised Toilet Seats
Raised toilet seats make sitting and standing easier by reducing the need to bend. They are particularly helpful for individuals with joint or leg issues, and many come with added features like armrests or padding for extra comfort. Easy to install and affordable, they improve independence and reduce strain.
4) Improve Lighting and Visibility
While it may sound obvious, lighting and visibility in the home are often overlooked. To ensure your home has the best visibility without breaking the bank, consider:
- Energy-efficient LED light bulbs
- Motion-sensor lights
- High-contrast colours for features like light switches, handrails and staircase edges
5) Add Portable Ramps
Portable ramps are a versatile and cost-effective solution that quickly improves your home’s accessibility. They offer convenience and flexibility and are an excellent choice for various accessibility needs.
Doorway Steps
Portable ramps can help wheelchair users overcome small steps at entryways, providing smoother and safer access to homes or buildings. Their lightweight design makes them easy to position and adjust as needed.
Vehicle Access
For wheelchair users, portable ramps can simplify getting in and out of vehicles. These ramps are designed to accommodate different heights, ensuring a seamless transition between the ground and the vehicle.
Many affordable portable ramps are available, with some models being foldable for easy storage and transportation. Whether at home or on the go, they provide a practical and effective solution for enhanced mobility.
6) Rearrange Furniture for Better Mobility
A simple yet effective way to enhance accessibility is to declutter and rearrange your furniture. Here are a few focus areas to get you started:
- Clear Pathways
- Reduce tripping hazards
- Accessible furniture (e.g. chairs and sofas with firm cushions and armrests)
7) Add Smart Technology To Your Home
Smart home devices can significantly enhance convenience and accessibility for everyone. These affordable solutions are easy to integrate and can make daily tasks simpler and more efficient.
Voice-Controlled Assistants
Devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Nest enable users to control lights, thermostats, and other appliances with simple voice commands. This hands-free functionality is especially helpful for individuals with mobility challenges or busy households.
Smart Plugs and Lights
Smart plugs and bulbs allow users to schedule or remotely control lighting and electronic devices. With a smartphone or voice command, you can adjust your home environment with ease, even when you’re not at home.
Video Doorbells
Video doorbells add an extra layer of security and convenience by allowing users to see and communicate with visitors at the door without needing to physically answer them. This feature is especially beneficial for enhancing home safety and accessibility.
8) Consider Adding A Stairlift For Staircase Ease
Getting up and down the stairs can be a common issue with a simple solution: stairlifts. Regardless of the design of your staircase, there are different stairlifts available to make your home life easier. The cost of stairlifts will differ depending on your staircase design and individual needs. Stairlift options include:
- Straight stairlifts
- Curved stairlifts
- Outdoor stairlifts
- Used stairlifts
9) Create an Inclusive Entryway
The entrance to your home should be welcoming and accessible to everyone. If yours currently isn’t, consider:
Doorbell Extenders
For individuals with hearing impairments, installing a doorbell extender can enhance accessibility. These devices provide visual alerts, such as flashing lights or vibrating notifications, to ensure visitors are never missed.
Slip-Resistant Mats
Reduce the risk of slips and falls by using non-slip mats at the entryway. These mats provide stability and safety, especially in wet or icy conditions, while maintaining a welcoming aesthetic.
Easy-to-Reach Locks
Replace traditional locks with lever-style handles or smart locks that are easier to use. These options offer greater accessibility for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity, while also adding convenience for all household members.
Enjoy A More Accessible & Welcoming Home
It is not difficult or expensive to create an accessible house if you think about it strategically. You can improve inclusion, comfort, and safety for all visitors and residents in your home by making small but deliberate adjustments.
Start by putting cost-effective solutions into place and looking into financing opportunities to help you achieve your accessibility objectives. When done with thought, you can completely transform your home to be more accessible and welcoming without breaking the bank.
