It’s not uncommon for a home to lack features that make its living spaces safe and comfortable for people with limited mobility. Nevertheless, it isn’t too hard to incorporate features that better accommodate loved ones with specific needs. In this post, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Ogden lists a few ways that you can alter your home so that it is better suited for people with limited mobility.
Doorways
Expand your doorways to allow easy access for wheelchair or walker users. The width of standard doorways makes it difficult for these people to pass through. Remodeling contractors generally recommend expanding doorways to 36 inches wide and installing off-set hinges for more clearance.
Height Adjustments
Make adjustments to the height of outlets, switches and the thermostat, as well as sinks, countertops and cabinets. To help people with limited mobility reach electrical outlets more easily, experts recommend raising outlets to 18 inches from the floor (versus the standard 12 inches). Switches should be lowered from 48 inches to 42 inches. In addition, it might be best to have a programmable thermostat installed so that someone with limited mobility won’t have to tinker with it from time to time.
Lowering cabinets, countertops and sinks may seem like a lot of hassle, but this is a practical option if you are remodeling your forever home. Additionally, consider using levered door handles and touch-sensitive faucets — these are quite convenient for those who have limited use of their hands and arms.
Grab Bars
Bathroom contractors typically recommend installing grab bars to assist people with limited mobility while they’re using the shower, tub or toilet. Grab bars are ideally located at the back and sides of the shower, tub and toilet.
Apart from adding grab bars to the bathroom, consider using sink faucets with anti-scald valves and temperature-controlled shower and tub fixtures instead. It would also be very helpful to have a telephone jack or medical response device in the bathroom. This will enable people with limited mobility to call for help when they need it.
One-Level Living
Going up and down the stairs can be physically exhausting for people with limited mobility. If possible, remodel the first floor so that it can accommodate all day-to-day living. This will eliminate the need to climb stairs in order to reach living spaces or bedrooms on upper floors. It also minimizes the risk of accidents.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Ogden has a reputation for providing quality home remodeling services along the Wasatch Front. Our areas of expertise include bathroom and kitchen remodeling, interior remodeling, and safety and mobility. Call us at (801) 436-8886 or fill out our contact form to start a conversation.
