Home Accessibility Solutions Costs
Most homeowners spend between $1,604 and $14,168 nationally. Get free estimates from local accessibility contractors.
Accessibility is an unavoidable issue for those who have problems with mobility. Most businesses make their establishments accessible for everyone, but the same cannot be said for home dwellings. Generally, homes are not built to be wheelchair accessible. Fortunately, there are a variety ways to improve a home to make it more comfortable for everyone, including someone who is disabled.
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Ramps
In order for someone who is wheelchair bound or unable to use stairs to have the ability to even access the home, there needs to be a way for him or her to get up to the door. Ramps are the solution to this problem. They are built to incline slowly, allowing those utilizing wheelchairs and walkers to get up and into the house. Ramps can be added to any entrance to the house.
Walk In Or Roll In Shower
Those with mobility issues often have trouble getting in and out of bathtubs. Some also have trouble standing for long enough to take a shower, if they are able to stand at all. For these reasons, walk-in showers can be installed. A walk-in shower takes the need to step over the wall of a bathtub away, allowing anyone easy access. In addition, shower chairs and railings can be added in case the user needs to sit down or steady themselves throughout their shower. This task may involve some additional plumbing to the bathroom, so it may be beneficial to consult with a professional prior to beginning it yourself.
Railings
Railings can be placed throughout the house in places the disabled individual may need assistance in when getting up and standing, such as in the bathroom and in the kitchen. The bathroom is a standard room to provide railings in, but railings can be added to any room to accommodate specific needs. For instance, if the individual is able to walk but needs assistance, railings can be installed in hallways. This allows some freedom of mobility and also a degree of comfort. However, before railings are installed, it is important to ensure there is enough space available; failure to do so could make it more difficult for anyone to safely maneuver through the house.
Widening Door Frames
There are many homes that have door frames that are not wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, therefore making it necessary to widen them. In order to safely and comfortably allow a wheelchair to fit through, a door frame needs to be at least 32 inches wide. The door itself may also need to be changed, even if the doorway is wide enough. It can be difficult for someone in a wheelchair to pull a door open and maneuver through, so a change in the way a door swings or operates may be needed. If it is decided that work needs to be done on the doorway, it is important to consider that there may be electrical wires running around the door frame.
Last updated on May 2, 2017