familyservicehub As our family members age, or develop a physical disability, they find it more challenging to get around the house. Rough River Hardware is here to help.
Some people prefer to relocate to a more accessible space, while others are content to remain in their current home for a longer period of time. There are many home improvements you can make to improve the mobility of someone who is older or has other mobility issues.
Install Ramps
Ramps are not just for wheelchair access. They can also be used to help people with mobility problems. It can be difficult to navigate steps with a cane, or even a walker. This can make it dangerous. You can install ramps outdoors near the doors and exits of your home. Threshold ramps are also available to be used indoors to make it easier to move from room to room.
Add Grab Bars
Grab bars are best installed in areas that require extra assistance to get up and down. It is important to install grab bars near toilets, beds or stairs as well as in the shower or bathtub. The grab bars should be mounted into the wall studs, and must support up to 250 pounds. It is easier to move from sitting to standing, and the chance of falling decreases.
How to Install a Toilet Riser
The toilet seat riser is a device that fits over the standard toilet seats and raises them by several inches. It is easier to sit and stand, which reduces the chance of an injury.
Installing a heat lamp in the bathroom
It can be difficult to enter and exit the tub or shower when you are disabled. This increases your chances of feeling cold or uncomfortable in the shower, especially during the winter. Replace existing fixtures instead of installing new sockets with light fixtures that include both a regular light bulb and an infrared lamp, providing heat.
Install new doorknobs
It can be hard to open and grab round doorknobs, especially for people with arthritis. It will be a huge difference for those in need if you replace them with handles that have levers. Consider replacing knobs in other areas such as cabinets, wardrobes or cupboards with handles of a bar style that is easier to grasp.
Replace Faucets
Replace knob or turn style faucets with levers that are easy to use. Anti-scald taps are also available, which stop the flow of water from suddenly becoming hot if cold water is being used in another part of the home.
Widen Doorways
Those who require mobility devices should be encouraged to use them whenever possible. Many doorways, however, are not wide enough to allow for mobility devices, and this may deter their use. It may not be practical to widen all the doors in your home. However, offset hinges are available to allow the door to be opened clear of the opening. This will add a few inches to the space for walkers.
Replacement Tubs
Walk-in bathtubs and walk-in-showers can replace standard tubs. This solution makes it easier for you to enter and exit the bath, which is very important because showers and bathtubs can be tricky to use due to water. These walk-in showers and tubs often come with benches that can reduce the chance of falling or slipping.
The Flooring
The best flooring is carpeting with a thickness of half an inch or less. This will reduce the chance that you’ll slip and fall. Rugs can be a problem as they are a trip hazard. Non-slip tile is an option for areas that cannot be carpeted. Or, DIY non-slip tiles can also be applied to existing tiles.
Replacing or lifting furniture
You might want to consider adding extended legs to the furniture or creating a wooden base to raise it. This will allow your loved one to get into and out of their furniture more easily. Consider the location of furniture and leave a 32-inch space between the pieces to allow for easy movement.
Upgrade the Lighting
Install floor lamps or reading tables, and add motion or tap lights to cupboards or cabinets. The additional lighting can improve mobility, and is a great improvement to reading or other household tasks.
Take advantage of new technology
The modern technology is a great help to people with mobility problems. The use of smart home systems allows anyone to adjust the temperature, switch on lights, select a channel, open the door, or close blinds from their seats. This can be a great convenience for those with mobility issues. There are many technological solutions to monitor and talk with people who live independently, but have mobility issues. These include wearable alert watch, sensor-equipped mats, or even floor mats.
It can be hard to have someone you love who has mobility issues. The DIY improvements they make can improve their home’s safety and increase their independence.
Rough River Hardware is always available to help you. We will provide exceptional customer service.
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