When it comes to wheelchair users, public spaces and buildings are slowly but surely becoming more inclusive spaces. However, there are still challenges present for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues when it comes to the confinement of our own homes. In order to overcome these challenges at home, there are many accessibility additions you can use to create a safe environment for yourself or.a loved one with a mobility issue.
Our article is here to dive into the ways in which you can improve the accessibility in your home, or the home of a loved one. These simple but effective additions to your home can transform life for those with mobility issues, giving them back their independence and safety. To learn more about household additions for wheelchair users and other mobility issues, keep on reading.
Understand The Risks At Home For Wheelchair Users & Individuals With Mobility Issues
Improving accessibility with different home additions is important for those with mobility challenges, as it gives them the freedom to move in and out of their home with ease. While these home additions make life more comfortable and convenient for individuals, there are also several ways that they improve safety at home. In order to understand how these features can improve safety, we need to understand the risks for those with mobility issues living alone.
Slippery Surfaces
Wet or slippery surfaces are a serious hazard, especially to those with mobility issues, or those in wheelchairs. As we age, our balance and ability to recover from injuries becomes a lot worse, so falling and sustaining an accidental injury can become more and more dangerous in later life. Slippery surfaces can be detrimental to wheelchair users, causing them to skid or fall. For those with mobility issues who aren't in wheelchairs, they can still pose a threat and cause a nasty slip or fall.
Falling
Falling can be very serious, especially in later life or when living with an injury. Falls can become more damaging to our health as we age, and for those living independently, a fall can become an emergency situation very quickly. If someone with a mobility issue falls and cannot get up or reach their phone to contact someone, things can become serious.
Poorly Lit Spaces
For those with mobility problems or wheelchair users, accessing light switches safely can be challenging, meaning their home may be poorly lit at times. This is a risk as a poorly lit room may have hazards that an individual does not notice. From clutter on the floor to a water spillage, being unable to see in poorly lit spaces creates a hazard for those living independently with mobility challenges.
Loss Of Independence
Many individuals who are struggling with mobility issues will struggle with a loss of independence. Some wheelchair users may require someone to help them move their wheelchair and get them from A to B. Other individuals who lived alone prior to having a mobility issue may need to live in care or to move in with loved ones for safety reasons. This loss of independence can take a toll on many individuals, especially in later life. Combined with the decrease in mobility, it can have an impact on their mental health, leading to anxiety and depression in some cases. This is why finding accessible solutions where possible is so important.
Household Additions For Improved Mobility Access
There are many different household additions and modifications that you can make to improve mobility access at your home. We’ve outlined some of the key ways in which you can do so, enhancing independent living and quality of life for yourself or loved ones.
Access Ramps
Access ramps are a common choice for many individuals, especially wheelchair users, as it removes the challenge of having to climb stairs, which can be extremely difficult for those with mobility issues. An access ramp is a special constructed section of pavement or a verge that allows wheelchair or scooter users to travel safely up and down. There are several types of ramps, such as:
● Threshold ramps
● Folding ramps
● Modular ramps
● Portable ramps
Permanent ramps are made from sturdy materials, such as concrete or metal, making them ideal for daily use and a stable access point for wheelchair users.
Portable access ramps are another popular choice, being constructed from aluminium or fibreglass, they are easy to move and adaptable, making them easy to move from place to place. All types of ramp are fitted with non-slip materials, making them safe for any weather condition.
Railings & Grab Bars
Railings and grab bars are also a great way to enhance safety and accessibility for those with mobility challenges. Along ramps, in hallways and in bathrooms are some of the key places that railings can be used to enhance safety. In bathrooms, they can be fitted in the shower, next to the toilet and by the bath tub, making it much safer for individuals to move independently. Proper installation is crucial for these types of accessibility features, as the risk of them becoming unstable is detrimental. If a railing or grab bar were to become unstable and an individual were to fall, this would be a serious accident or emergency.
Stairlifts
Stairlifts offer a practical and safe solution for many homes. When someone is struggling with a mobility issue, it can limit their ability to go upstairs, leaving them confined to just their downstairs space. This can feel quite limiting and reduce their ability to live independently. Stairlifts however, are excellent assistive devices that can improve the quality of life for these individuals and help them get up the stairs safely. Here at Dolphin Mobility, we supply a range of stairlifts to help you cater to straight or curved staircases.
By investing in a stairlift, individuals can maintain their independence and keep enjoying both floors of their home.
Other Solutions
We’ve listed some of the more significant accessibility modifications you can make to your home to improve the lives of wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, however there are other solutions to be aware of. Read below to understand some of the other solutions available to enhance safety and accessibility for individuals at home.
● Lowering Countertops - For wheelchair users especially, lowering countertops and making amendments in kitchens or bathrooms can help massively. This allows wheelchairs the ability to make food comfortably, clean and carry out other day to day tasks. In bathrooms too, sink accessibility and being able to reach surfaces can help with their independence massively.
● Widening Doorways - In homes with narrow doorways, this can make it incredibly difficult for wheelchair users to move safely from room to room. It can lead to accidents, scuffs and even falls. By making home adjustments such as widening doorways, wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges can safely move through doorways without having to worry.
● Non-Slip Flooring - In high risk rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms, where falls and accidents are more likely, investing in non-stick flooring or non-stick mats is a wise safety precaution. Water, cleaning products and other moisture can easily ause a slip hazard on the floor in these rooms. This applies to both wheelchair users and those with mobility issues, as it minimises the chances of a fall or accident, making it safer for individuals to be in these spaces at home.
● Accessible Lighting - If you’re looking to make more technological upgrades to your home, accessible lighting and smart home features could be something to consider. Automated door controls, smart lighting, heating and even voice controls are available to enhance the safety of those with mobility challenges at home.
Dolphin Mobility: Helping You Improve Mobility Access
Integrating access ramps and other household additions can improve the lives of wheelchair users and individuals with mobility issues. By helping them to stay safer and more comfortable, they can reclaim their independence at home.
Here at Dolphin Mobility, we offer a range of accessible and affordable mobility solutions across the East Midlands, Lincoln and Nottinghamshire area. We understand the importance of maintaining independence at home, which is why we offer a range of solutions, so you can find the mobility access option that suits you the best.
To learn more about our access ramps, stairlifts or other solutions, feel free to browse our website. You can also get in touch with our team to learn more or ask any questions you may have.
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