How to Make Your Home More Accessible for Seniors and People with Disabilities

Photo: Wheelchairstogo

If someone in your household is elderly or impacted by a lasting injury or disability, you may be required to make some modifications to your home.

Not only will these changes improve their quality of life quite significantly, but they also have the potential to add value to a property.

These days, due to the modern technology and health services on hand, more and more Australians are choosing to spend their later years in the home. And as Baby Boomers continue to move into retirement, they will require facilities designed to help them live independently.

It seems inevitable that demand for homes featuring these modifications will increase.

We have listed some of the immediate changes that can be made to a home to ensure it is more accessible.

Entryways

• Increase the lighting in dark entryways and hallways

• Remove trip hazards like cracked pavers and rugs. If possible, reduce the need to use steps by putting in a walkway or ramp. Ramps should be weather resistent and covered in a non-slip material.

• Add a bench or seat near the door as a resting place

Bathrooms

• Change a step-in shower threshold to a no-threshold shower for roll-in access

• Install a second showerhead in a seated user position. You may also want to add a stool so that sitting is an option.

• Change a vanity to a lower height, with roll-under access for a wheelchair user.

• Consider installing a faucet that can gauge the temperature to reduce the risk of burns.

• Replace your toilet with a comfort-height model, which is slightly higher than normal (about the height of a dining room chair).

• Install convenient grab rails inside the shower and beside the toilet.

• Place rubber bathmats on the shower floor to prevent skidding

Installing a ramp is just one way homeowners can make their property more accessible
Photo: Friesenhahn Custom Homes

Kitchens

• Round the corners on countertops to reduce the risk of injury.

• Install cabinets with pull-out shelves on rollers so that they are easier to open.

• Add a faucet with a pull-out spout or touch activation.

Outdoors

• Ensure outside paving is firm and smooth for wheelchair access

• Plant low maintenance native plants

• Consider raising garden beds for flowers or veggie patches, limiting the need to bend

• Install a time-activated sprinkler system to reduce the time and strain needed to water

Livable Housing Australia has compiled an extensive list of liveability tips that can be followed to make homes easier and safer to live in.

These tips are divided into three performance levels – Silver, Gold and Platinum – which vary according to individual needs.

Take a look at their website for the full list of design suggestions.

Ensure that you consult with an occupational therapist or professional before making any significant permanent changes. There are a variety of rules and regulations that you must comply with in order for your changes to be safe and legal.