7 Wheelchair Accessible Home Ideas

Wheelchair users face far too many problems with mobility. From stores with no mobility ramps to endless flights of stairs, navigating the world in a wheelchair can be frustrating.

One place that should never cause any mobility problems is your home. Let’s discuss seven key elements to consider when updating your home.

An Entrance Ramp Can Make a House Wheelchair Accessible

If your doorway is slightly elevated, an entrance ramp is the first thing to consider. Entrance ramps make for a smooth and easy entrance.

However, it’s a good idea to make sure an entrance ramp is coupled with plenty of turn-around space and a wide hallway.

Round Contoured Furniture

Some wheelchair-accessible ideas seem obvious, like an entrance ramp and low storage.

However, it’s a good idea to use smooth, round, contoured furniture. This can help to minimize the chance of injury and accidents.

Also, round-styled furniture can give your home a sleek, chic look.

Service Lifts Are an Important Part of Wheelchair Accessible Housing

For anyone with mobility issues, a service lift is a must-have. A service lift can be used to transport a wheelchair user from floor to floor, but it can also have a myriad of other uses.

For example, a service lift can be used as a laundry chute, an easy way to transport food, or any other use.

The idea of installing a service lift might be a little intimidating. You might imagine a high price tag, weeks of construction work, and endless mess.

Don’t worry – the installation process is much simpler than you might think. Most service lift companies have a website with plenty of information to guide you through the process.

Under-Counter Appliances

The kitchen can be a dangerous place. It’s even more dangerous if you have to stretch and reach for burner knobs and other appliance controls.

Under-the-counter dishwashers, washing machines, and more are easier to reach and easier to use.

Additionally, oven controls and knobs that are easy to reach make the kitchen a safer place to be.

Handicap Accessible Homes Need Low Storage

It’s good to optimize your cupboards and other storage areas to keep them placed low in the home.

Most homes come with high overhead cupboards as standard. Of course, this is useless for wheelchair users.

Instead of dealing with wasted space, keep your storage areas where you can easily reach.

An Accessible Home Design Should Include an Optimized Bathroom

Just about everyone runs the risk of slipping and seriously injuring themselves in the bathroom.

Of course, you’ll need accessible sinks and low storage, but there’s more. Grab bars around the toilet and a curbless, roll-in shower are minor adjustments that make life so much easier for a wheelchair user.

No Floor Rugs

Last but not least, it’s a good idea not to bother with floor rugs. Although you might personally find them attractive, they often make a room seem warmer and more inviting.

However, they can get in the way of a wheelchair user trying to get around. All in all, it’s best to avoid them.

There are lots of elements to consider when optimizing your home for a wheelchair user. With a bit of time and forethought, you’ll be able to create a warm, welcoming space.

Can you think of any home modifications for wheelchair users?