Accessibility

8 Essential Ways to Make Your Home Wheelchair Accessible

August 7, 2023
Three people are on a porch. One older woman and one younger woman sit on wicker chairs, while an older man stands using a walker. A small table with flowers is between the seated women.

At 101 Mobility, we believe everyone deserves the freedom to move around their own home without restrictions. This is why we are passionate about providing mobility and accessibility solutions for people who use wheelchairs. One of our primary goals is to empower homeowners to transform their homes into safe, comfortable, and accessible spaces.

Here are some key ways to make your home more wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the comforts of home.

1. Install Ramps

One of the most significant barriers to wheelchair users is stairs. Replace steps at entryways with ramps to provide easy access to your home. Ramps should be durable, anti-slip, and wide enough for comfortable navigation. At 101 Mobility, we offer a range of ramp solutions that can be customized to fit your home’s architecture.

2. Widen Doorways

Standard doorways may be too narrow for wheelchairs to pass through comfortably. A minimum width of 32 inches is required for wheelchair accessibility. Consider remodeling doorways or installing swing-clear hinges for added space.

3. Consider a Stairlift or Vertical Platform Lift

If your home is multilevel, stairlifts or vertical platform lifts can be a game-changer. These mobility devices allow wheelchair users to access different floors with ease. 101 Mobility provides a comprehensive range of both stairlifts and vertical platform lifts, with options to suit every home and budget.

4. Adapt Your Bathroom

A bathroom can present many accessibility challenges for wheelchair users. Invest in a roll-in shower, grab bars, and a wheelchair-accessible sink. Non-slip floors can significantly increase safety, and lever-style faucet handles are easier to use than traditional knobs.

5. Adjust Kitchen Counters and Cabinets

Lowering kitchen counters and cabinets can make food preparation and storage more accessible. Install pull-out shelves and lazy Susans to improve access to stored items. Opt for D-shaped cabinet and drawer handles as they are easier for people with limited mobility to grasp.

6. Optimize Flooring

Thick carpets and rugs can make wheelchair navigation difficult. Hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring can make movement easier. Make sure to keep floors free of clutter to facilitate smooth navigation.

7. Automate Your Home

Smart home technology can greatly increase accessibility. Automated systems can control lighting, temperature, security, and even blinds at the touch of a button. Voice-activated systems are particularly useful for wheelchair users.

8. Ensure Adequate Lighting

Good lighting is essential for safety. Use bright lights, especially in areas like hallways, stairways, and entrances. Consider touch-activated or voice-controlled lights for added convenience.

Making your home wheelchair accessible may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. At 101 Mobility, we specialize in creating accessible environments for all, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, every change, no matter how small, moves you closer to a home that’s fully accessible for everyone. Embrace the journey towards better accessibility, and enjoy the comfort and freedom that comes with it. Call us today to discover how 101 Mobility can make your home a haven of accessibility.