Make sure your home is accessible for seniors with wheelchairs.
Home is where we can enjoy the most comfort and familiarity, and it’s for that reason so many older adults make the decision to continue to live at home as they age. But many times, wheelchairs become a part of life when seniors or those with certain disabilities experience decreased mobility. This can be particularly challenging when it comes to ensuring the home is a safe place for seniors with wheelchairs. Thankfully, a few home modifications for aging adults and disabled persons can substantially improve safety.
Below are just a few changes that are suggested to incorporate a wheelchair into the home:
- Make sure driveways and walkways are smooth, but not slick.
- Install a ramp to the front door with landings at the top and bottom.
- Doorways need to be 32-36 inches wide with enough floor space near the doors to move a wheelchair.
- Thresholds on doors need to be ¼ inch or less.
- Cabinet shelves ought to be no more than 10 inches deep.
- Controls on the oven must be placed at the front.
- Ensure that there is knee space beneath all sinks.
- Oven doors should ideally be able to swing open to the side.
- For deeper shelves, put in a Lazy Susan to make it possible for the person to easily reach all items.
- Bathrooms ought to have either a wheelchair maneuverable tub with a 60-inch turning radius or T-turn space, or a stand-up shower that is curbless and at least 36 inches wide.
- There should be sufficient room to transfer from wheelchair to toilet.
- Walk-in closets are great for wheelchair-bound individuals, but a closet organizer that offers the person the ability to reach all items is also a good option.
- Additionally, floors should be free of clutter and furniture should be arranged to maximize mobility potential for seniors with wheelchairs.
Endeavor In Home Care, providers of in home senior care in Phoenix and the surrounding areas, can also offer home modification ideas as a feature of our home care services.
We start with our free in home consultation, where we develop a personalized care plan to address the person’s specific care requirements and wishes, and then we will monitor that plan ongoing and update as needs change.
Our Phoenix area home care services are also available in the surrounding areas for just a few hours each week, up through full-time, around-the-clock care. Call us any time at (480) 498-2324, or contact us online to learn more!
