How To Make Your House More Accessible

As we go through life, our needs and abilities can change. It's vital to ensure that our homes can accommodate these changes and remain accessible to our loved ones and us. Making your house more accessible doesn't have to be a daunting task, and you can make plenty of simple modifications to improve its functionality and safety. Whether you or a family member has a disability or mobility issues or you want to age in place comfortably, this guide will offer tips and suggestions on how to make your house more accessible.

1. Invest in a Home Lift

One of the most effective ways to ensure your home is accessible and comfortable for everyone is by investing in an appropriate mobility device. Stairlifts from www.stiltzlifts.co.za can be installed in homes to assist those who have difficulty climbing stairs or reaching higher levels. Various models are available, including lifts specifically designed for wheelchairs and motorized scooters.

Their innovative designs are easy to install and can help make your home more accessible for those in wheelchairs. They also provide comfort and convenience for those who experience difficulties with stairs or have trouble climbing up and down the levels of their home. This practical solution can be tailored to fit any budget and offers an invaluable level of assistance to anyone who needs it.

2. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

Adding grab bars and handrails to critical areas of your home, such as the bathroom and stairs, is an excellent way to enhance everyone's safety and make life easier for those with mobility issues. They provide extra support that can make a difference for seniors, kids, people rehabbing from injury or illness, and anyone else who needs additional stability.



Considering how inexpensive they are and easy to install—and the greater level of comfort that comes from the assurance they offer—installing grab bars or handrails makes sense on many levels. Moreover, if done tastefully, they can serve as striking accent pieces in their own right.

3. Make Sure Doorways and Hallways are Wide Enough

Accessibility and inclusivity should be top priorities for all of us—in our homes, businesses, and public places. If a space isn't set up to accommodate those with mobility issues, it's not truly accessible. Making sure that doorways and hallways are wide enough may seem simple, but it's essential for the comfort and safety of everyone. Ramps, lifts, and other assistive technology can bring a location up to code if needed.

However, it's best if otherwise narrow doorways can be widened during renovation or construction to prevent unnecessary stress or hassle while improving accessibility. It's often wiser to prioritize ensuring everyone who visits the premises can do so comfortable right out of the gate.

4. Remove Tripping Hazards

Every home has its share of tripping hazards, such as area rugs, furniture with legs, and power cords. These items may seem innocuous but can present a real danger to people using wheelchairs or walkers—not to mention that they increase the chances of falls for other household members. Ensuring these items are stored safely and checked periodically is an easy way to keep your home accessible.

If you have a slippery floor, it can help to add non-slip mats or rubberized materials to ensure greater stability. Getting rid of clutter and any other potentially hazardous objects is also recommended to reduce trips and falls while improving the overall safety of the space.

5. Improve Lighting

Liquid rooms and hallways can lead to trips and falls, so ensuring your space is always well-lit is essential. You don't necessarily have to go for the brightest lights available; instead, focus on providing consistent illumination throughout. The best way to do this is by using multiple light sources and varying the wattage levels in different areas.

You may also want to install motion sensors that automatically turn on lights when someone enters a room. Motion-activated lighting can be a good option for seniors, or those with mobility issues, who may have trouble reaching a light switch. It's an easy way to ensure that your home is well-lit and accessible at all times.

6. Install Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology can be an invaluable aid for people with mobility issues. Automated features, such as voice-activated commands and remote controls, make it easier to control various aspects of the home environment from a distance or even without getting up or leaving the room.

You can find smart devices designed to assist with lighting, climate control, and appliance operation. Installing these devices can make a huge difference in the everyday lives of those with mobility issues and other family members.

Making your home more accessible may seem overwhelming. Still, the tips outlined above help make the process easier and ensure that you create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. With patience, creativity, and some good investments in the right equipment, you can ensure your home is an inviting and welcoming place that everyone can enjoy.