30 September 2024
Ways to future-proof your home
As we get older, our mobility and accessibility needs change, and this affects not only how we deal with things in our day-to-day lives but also how comfortable we are in our own homes.
Whether planning for your future, caring for an ageing loved one, or simply adding value to your home, preparing for future mobility needs is a wise investment. Future-proofing your home involves making modifications and upgrades to ensure it remains safe, comfortable, and accessible for everyone. Here are some effective strategies to help you future-proof your home.
Installing a stairlift
Navigating stairs is one of the most significant challenges in a multi-story home for those with limited mobility, and installing a stairlift can dramatically improve accessibility. Stairlifts offer numerous benefits, such as significantly reducing the risk of falls and injuries on stairs, providing convenience by allowing easy access to upper floors without physical strain, and enhancing independence, enabling individuals to move around the home freely.
When considering a stairlift, it is important to select the appropriate type, as stairlifts come in straight, curved designs, as well as outdoor stairlift options, depending on the staircase's layout.
Widening Doorways
Narrow doorways can be a significant barrier to accessibility, particularly for wheelchair users. Widening doorways is a crucial step in creating an inclusive home environment. This modification facilitates the use of wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to move through the home. Additionally, wider doorways enhance the market appeal of your home to a broader range of buyers, increasing its resale value.
Before widening doorways, consult with a builder to understand the structural implications and costs involved. While making these changes, consider replacing traditional doorknobs with lever handles, which are easier to use for individuals with limited hand strength. Ensure smooth transitions between rooms by addressing any thresholds that could become tripping hazards.
Creating Accessible Living Spaces
Designing living spaces with accessibility in mind ensures that all areas of the home are usable and comfortable for everyone. Key areas to focus on include the bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, and living room. In the bathroom, installing grab bars, a walk-in shower, and a raised toilet seat can enhance safety and accessibility. The kitchen should have lower countertops, pull-out shelves, and easy access to appliances to accommodate those with mobility challenges. In the bedroom, ensure there is ample space around the bed for mobility aids, and consider adjustable beds for added comfort. The living room should have clear pathways by arranging furniture appropriately and considering lift chairs to make sitting and standing easier.
Utilise Smart Home Technology
Integrating smart home technology can significantly improve accessibility and convenience for individuals with mobility challenges. Voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon Echo or Google Home, can control lights, thermostats, and other home systems, making daily tasks easier. Automated lighting with motion sensors can illuminate pathways and reduce the risk of falls. Smart security systems, including locks, doorbells, and cameras, can be controlled remotely, providing peace of mind. Health monitoring devices that track vital signs and send alerts in emergencies can be particularly beneficial for older adults living alone.
Considering Flooring Options
Choosing the right flooring can enhance mobility and reduce the risk of accidents in your home. Non-slip surfaces, such as non-slip tiles, vinyl, or rubber flooring, are ideal for preventing falls. If you prefer carpeting, low-pile options are easier for wheelchairs and walkers to navigate. Ensure smooth transitions between different types of flooring to avoid abrupt changes in height that could become tripping hazards.
Improving Outdoor Accessibility
Ensuring the exterior of your home is accessible is just as important as the interior. Installing ramps at entryways to replace steps makes it easier for wheelchair users to enter and exit the home. Creating wide, smooth pathways in your garden facilitates safe movement for those with mobility aids. Enhancing outdoor lighting improves visibility and safety at night, while sturdy handrails along outdoor stairs and ramps provide additional support.
Planning for Future Adaptations
Future-proofing your home is an ongoing process, and planning for future adaptations can save time and money. Using universal design principles accommodates a wide range of abilities and ages, ensuring your home remains accessible as needs change. Pre-wiring your home for future technology upgrades, such as automated systems and additional lighting, can make future modifications easier. Consider modular and adjustable solutions that can be easily modified as needs evolve. Consulting with professionals, such as occupational therapists, architects, and contractors who specialise in accessible design, can provide valuable insights and ensure your home is well-prepared for the future.
Future-proofing your home is a thoughtful and practical approach to ensuring it remains a safe, comfortable, and welcoming space for years to come. By installing stairlifts, widening doorways, creating accessible living spaces, leveraging smart home technology, choosing the right flooring, improving outdoor accessibility, and planning for future adaptations, you can create a home that meets the evolving needs of its inhabitants. Taking these steps enhances the quality of life for those with mobility challenges and adds long-term value to your property.
So, if you’re planning for your future or a loved one, then hopefully, this guide has offered you some advice and information. If you know someone who struggles with their mobility, get in contact to arrange a home visit. For more useful articles like this, make sure you take a look at the rest of our blog.
