If that person is in a wheelchair, chances are pretty good that it would be a challenge at best and impossible at worst. Let’s face it—most homes are not designed to accommodate people with disabilities, particularly those in a wheelchair. How do you make your home more “visitable”? Are there some things you can do inexpensively to make your home more accessible?
According to Salt Lake City-based architect Jerry Green, who has multiple sclerosis and spends most of his day in a wheelchair, “Yes…and no.” While there are some simple things you can do to make things a bit easier, making your home completely accessible would require a substantial investment.
If you live in a home that has more than one step up at the entryway, you may want to consider a portable ramp to provide access to someone in a wheelchair. A three-foot portable ramp would cost anywhere from $100 to $300. Less expensive are threshold ramps, to allow wheelchairs to negotiate old-fashioned door thresholds. If your entryway has more than three stairs, then a wheelchair lift would have to be installed, which could be several thousand dollars.
The Simpler Solution?
“Have people around,” Green says. “I’ve had people carry me inside, in some instances.” A bit of planning ahead could provide an easier solution for the occasional visit. Once inside, another simple thing to do is pick up throw rugs, according to Green. Whether you are in a wheelchair or walking with crutches, area rugs can be a problem.
If you do have stairways, make sure you have hand rails and/or grab bars installed. And that goes for bathrooms as well. A grab rail can make a big difference for someone who has to transfer in and out of a wheelchair. Another often overlooked item is lighting. “Make sure stairways and walkways are well lit,” JGreen says. It’s a low-cost measure that can make a big difference.
Accessible Dining Room
Make sure you have the table in an area big enough to allow for easy access. Wheelchairs need about a five-foot diameter space to turn around. And remember to arrange your furniture in such a way that make it wheelchair-accessible.
AARP suggests 10 access features that can greatly increase their home’s comfort and safety for anyone. And most of the products can be purchased at your local hardware store.
• Install handrails on both sides of all steps (inside and outside)
• Secure all carpets and area rugs with double-sided tape, (or do away with area rugs)
• Install easy-to-grasp shaped handles for all drawers and cabinet doors
• Use brighter bulbs in all settings
• Install nightlights in all areas of night activity
• Add reflective, non-slip tape on all non-carpeted stairs
• Install lever handles for all doors
• Place a bench near entrances for setting down purchases and resting
• Install closet lights, as well as adjustable rods and shelves
• Install rocker light switches; consider illuminated ones in select areas.
These are a few simple things that can make your home more visitable for friends with disabilities. And in the long run, these changes will also make your home safer and more comfortable for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
See Related Articles
See Visitability: Building Access in New Homes to learn more about making a home accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Read Wheelchair Ramp "Hide and Seek" to learn more about how to disguise a wheelchair ramp around your home.
