10 Ways to Make a Handicap Accessible Home

Did you know that the United States housing stock is not very well equipped with the ability to make a handicap-accessible home from a previously built one?

If you're starting to realize that you're running into that issue, there are ways to go about making your home more handicap-friendly for you or a loved one.

Keep reading to find out 10 ways to make these home improvements!

1. Widen the Doorways

Widening doorways is not always cheap, but it may be necessary to make a home wheelchair accessible.

If you're looking for cheaper ways to widen a doorway, you may be able to add hinges to the door to make it swing clear of the entryway.

2. Build a Ramp

If a garage or a front door is set above the rest of the home, there are probably stairs to get there. Instead of using stairs, adding in a ramp will make your home more wheelchair-friendly.

Be sure to check local guidelines before you start building.

3. Add Grab Bars

Adding grab bars in the bathroom is a great home renovation to add to prevent slipping or falling. These are great to put in the shower, bath, and by the toilet.

4. Renovate the Shower

Having to step over a large bathtub side to get into the shower can be an accident waiting to happen. Consider adding in a step-in shower instead.

5. Install a Stairlift

If there are stairs in the home, it may be difficult to get rid of those altogether. Instead, consider adding a stairlift to make the home more wheelchair accessible.

There most likely is a stairlift available in whatever style or price you're looking for.

6. Redo the Flooring

It may be time to get rid of the old and bring in the new look. Not only for style trends but also for safety.

Hardwood floors and tile are much better for wheelchairs to wheel on and are less likely for someone to trip on.

7. Remodel the Kitchen

Although you may need to rethink how the entire kitchen is laid out, there are also smaller things you can do to make the kitchen more handicap-accessible.

Be sure to put the stuff used the most often in lower cabinets. You can also take out cabinets below the sink or other used areas to make room for a wheelchair.

8. Lower the Closet Rods

Sometimes closet rods and shelving in closets tend to be high. To make it more accessible, lower the rods to be at a reasonable height for a wheelchair.

9. Move Around Furniture

Depending on the home's layout, it may be necessary to move furniture to make more paths for a wheelchair. You may also want to consider getting rid of a chair to make room for visiting.

10. Change Out Door Knobs

Round doorknobs can be difficult to open. To make it easier, install lever door handles for more accessibility.

Follow These Tips for a More Handicap Accessible Home

It may not be easy to make changes to a home you love. But for someone you love, it's not a question of doing it or not.

With these tips, you'll find making home improvements to create a handicap-accessible home is not too bad.

You can check out our resources for more help as well.