More and more homes around the world are being designed to create affordable, accessible housing for those with disabilities, but sadly there is still a lack of accessible homes available in the UK. Many UK homes are unable to accommodate wheelchair users, for example, in their original state, and older homes are especially problematic. However, there are ways to convert your home to make it safe and accessible. If you’re thinking of bringing a disabled friend or relative to live with you and your property is not accessible for those with limited mobility, here are some aspects to consider before moving them in:

High Rise Townhouses

Townhouses built near to a busy centre are generally built narrow and tall to make the most of the land, which means your home may have two, three, four, or even more storeys. Consider installing stairlifts that allow your relative to get between floors easily. Stairlifts have been greatly improved in recent years, and they’re now considered the safest and most efficient way of transferring those with limited mobility between storeys.

Narrow Stairways

Some people think that the narrow stairways and passageways in their home won’t accommodate assisted living aids, such as stairlifts, but that’s not true. Stairlifts are actually very versatile these days and can fit into almost any home. Whether you need a stairlift for narrow stairs, a stairlift for curved stairs, a stairlift for straight stairs, or even a stairlift for outdoor stairs, you should be able to find something suitable if you get in touch with reputable companies in the UK.

Slim Doorways

If your friend or relative uses a wheelchair to get around, you will want to measure your doorways to ensure that the chair will fit through. The average wheelchair is approximately 63 cm wide, meaning the optimal door width is 100 cm. Most doors aren’t this wide, so what’s the solution? It may be possible to widen some doors, but an alternative is to make your home more open plan. It can be a big job, but it’s an excellent choice for those with disabilities.

Steps And Uneven Flooring

Some old houses contain steps inside the home, or very uneven flooring that could make it risky for those who are unsteady on their feet to get around. Adding ramps to your home, complete with handrails for support, can help to make your house more accessible. Ramps are relatively inexpensive to fit, and they create a much safer environment for disabled residents.

Bathing Facilities

Shower or bath? That’s the big question.

Unfortunately, neither one are particularly suitable for disabled people, so what are you to do? Firstly, don’t panic! There are now loads of options to help you adapt your bathroom to make it more accessible. Baths have the issue that it can be difficult for disabled people to get in and out. Consider adding a bath hoist that gently lowers your friend or relative into the water in a safe, secure manner. The problem with showers, on the other hand, is that long periods of standing can be uncomfortable, painful, or even impossible for some. A shower stool takes some of the pressure off, and allows those with limited mobility to maintain their independence by washing themselves. Initially, converting your home into an accessible property can seem like a mammoth task, but if you break it down, room by room, it’s actually very straight forward, and even the most inaccessible home can be transformed into a safe and usable space. There are a number of government grants available for both full and part time carers that can help towards the cost of converting your home, so check out what’s available in your local area.