If you or someone you are living with has begun to experience a loss of mobility, then don’t despair. There are many helpful modifications you can make to your home which will make getting around much safer and more convenient.
While the exact adaptations you will need to make will depend on your unique circumstances, and the advice of your specialists, here are some common modifications to consider.
Install Ramps And Grab Rails
One of the biggest threats to anyone who struggles with mobility – particularly if they are more advanced in age – is the prospect of a fall. This threat can be exacerbated by having to negotiate steps, or while getting into or out of a seated position.
To reduce the risk of an accident, installing grab rails around the home, and introducing ramps instead of steps, will help to provide essential security and support.
Move Switches And Handles
If you or your loved one spends most of their time in a wheelchair, or if you have difficulty with manual dexterity, then you may find it easier to lower your light switches and replace your door fixtures.
Rounded door knobs, in particular, can be difficult or even impossible to open if you have dexterity issues, so it’s vital that you replace them with a much easier handle.
Swap Your Current Car For A WAV
Adjusting to a decline in mobility can be difficult, particularly if it means that you need to use a wheelchair to move around and complete your usual tasks, such as grocery shopping.
One of the adaptations you can use to make getting about much easier is to replace your current car with a WAV, or wheelchair-accessible vehicle. These vehicles provide invaluable independence for disabled individuals and their families, allowing you all to enjoy your favourite outings.
If you’re not sure where to find the right vehicle, you should consider buying, hiring or leasing a motability WAV from Allied Mobility, with the help of the Motability Cars Scheme.
Modify Your Bathroom
Bathrooms can quickly become the most dangerous part of the house if you struggle with a loss of mobility, as their furnishings and slippery floors can easily contribute to a fall or injury. As a result, it’s a good idea that you focus on adapting your bathrooms as soon as possible, to make them a safe and enjoyable place to be once more.
Some possible bathroom modifications you may want to consider include investing in a walk-in bath or shower, installing a bath lift and several grab rails, and raising the height of the toilet seat for easier access.
Buy An Adjustable Bed
The simple act of getting out of bed can become a real struggle when you have mobility difficulties so you may want to look into getting a hospital bed at home. Fortunately, there are specially designed accessible beds which will make the process of getting in and out of bed much simpler and more convenient.
These beds can also be adjusted once you are in place, to help you find the most comfortable position – ensuring a sound night’s sleep.
A Quick Conclusion
Adjusting to a loss of mobility can be challenging, particularly at first. However, focusing on making modifications to your home can help you and your loved ones to adapt more easily to your new circumstances, and will provide a renewed sense of confidence when it comes to moving around. You’ll then be able to find ways to adapt going forward and live the same comfortable life you deserve.
