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Many people have to consider ways to make their homes more accessible. They may have suffered a life altering injury or illness themselves – or have relatives and friends who have to cope with these changed circumstances. Perhaps it’s a case of growing older and not being as mobile as was once the case. Maybe you have a rental property, holiday home or offer accommodation on Airbnb – and want to comply with legal regulations or just make it as user friendly for as many people as possible. Whatever the reason, here a 5 ways to make your home more accessible.

Entrance

A door system with intercom and visual screen is particularly useful for home occupants with mobility issues. On hearing the buzzer or seeing a visual indicator, the occupier can ascertain who’s there by way of the intercom or live image screen. They can speak directly to that person – informing them that they’re on their way or what to do if they’re unable to get to the door, where to leave packages etc. They can also let callers in if so desired by way of an integrated door lock release mechanism.

Flooring

Continuous level flooring rather than multi-level floors with steps is a real help for those with walking issues, especially if confined to a wheelchair. When planning refurbishments, assess if open-plan areas are an option. These spaces offer real benefits to those people with mobility issues. Create zones for living rather than lots of different rooms. This reduces the need for doors that might be difficult to open. It also facilitates the installation of a one level flooring finish with all the obvious advantages. If you do have multiple connecting rooms, you could still consider running the same flooring seamlessly between them.

Also, think about using the same material, such as natural stone tiles, in adjoining internal and external spaces. Not only does it work well in creating a real sense of flow visually between inside and out, it creates flow literally for those with mobility issues. The occupant can move effortlessly from kitchen, lounge or bedroom outside into pretty garden patio areas – a real life enhancer. If steps are present, perhaps a ramp structure could replace or be sited alongside them. If this isn’t practical then a collapsible or fold away ramp could be stored in the building for those visiting.

Bathroom

The bathroom, with it’s need for a certain degree of privacy, is probably one area that isn’t suitable to incorporate into the open plan scheme! This particular space can cause most trouble and discomfort for those with access issues. For starters, standard baths and showers can be very difficult to get in and out of. And, if they do manage to get in, they can be difficult to use thereafter for those with mobility issues. There are numerous options available to make life easier.

Firstly, consider if a wet room is an option. This creates lots of space for the user and eliminates the need for some of the internal fittings with their associated restrictions or obstacles to use. Then there are baths with side panel doors or perhaps consider a walk-in shower. These have a drainage tray which is installed flush with the floor and can also have the option of a built-in seat for those unable to stand whilst washing. They can look great too, with unfussy, clean and simple lines.

Furniture

Adjustable beds and chairs that assist in sitting/standing up/down are readily available. These can be either motorised or lever controlled. Stairlifts, the designs of which continue to develop and improve, can be the solution for multi-level homes. Sleek, modern internal lift systems might also be an option for those with the required space and budget.

On a different scale all together – easily reached cupboards, drawers and cabinets are a relatively simple improvement that can be made. If it’s your own home, they can be completely customised to suit your own needs. However, for general occupier usage, nothing too high or too low would be the recommendation – eliminating the stretching up and crouching down positions which are often difficult.

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Electrics

Consider re-positioning electric switches and sockets to make them easier to reach. Again, simply not too high or low is the mantra. It won’t make life more difficult for the unrestricted or able-bodied but will certainly help those with mobility issues. There are easy-to-use appliances available too. Appliances with large buttons and controllers for the visually impaired, for example, or ones that are easy to plug in/disconnect for people with arthritis or similar problems.

And what about smart home hubs such as Alexa or Google Home? What a potential godsend for those with mobility issues – controlling the heating, switching lights on & off, playing music, acquiring information – all this can be done by verbally interacting with the system – no need to move around at all.

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