For most new homeowners, the priorities are what mattress to buy, what color to paint the bedroom walls and what rug best compliments the living room furniture. However, for 14.6 million people in the UK their disability is the number one priority when moving into a new home.
A home should be a safe and happy place, but the wrong home can provide challenges to those with a disability. These challenges can cause frustration and exacerbate the impacts of a person’s disability.
Those 14.6 million Brits need a house that is accessible and suitable to their individual needs. If you don’t have a disability, converting your home for family members, friends and neighbors that do will help to make sure all feel welcome.
This article will explore how you can make your home more accessible.
Book The Experts
Companies specializing in house building and interior design prioritize the needs of their customers. Most will have already considered the unique needs of some customers and offer specialized services for customers who have a disability.
DM Design offers kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms designed for wheelchair users and those with other disabilities.
Extend Doorways
Most doorways in UK homes are narrow, especially in older houses. This creates significant challenges for homeowners, renters and guests alike.
Extending the width of your doorways will ensure your home is more accessible.
Install A Ramp
If your disability means that you use a wheelchair or other equipment, consider installing external ramps to all entrances to your home. Getting in and out of your home will be much easier as a result.
If you aren’t a wheelchair user, installing ramps in and around your house will make your home accessible for all and create inclusive spaces.
Anti-Slip Flooring
For those with Multiple Sclerosis, the risk of falling is high. Falling can cause broken bones and so provisions should be taken to avoid this as much as possible.
Investing in slip-proof flooring is important, especially in the bathroom which will be especially slippy as a result of shower condensation.
While you’re fitting anti-slip flooring and mats, take the opportunity to install good quality bannisters and railings around the home. These will help inhabitants and guests to more safely move around the property.
Avoid Clutter
Cluttered floors and surfaces will make navigating your home more difficult, which will worsen the unique challenges you face.
Clutter could prevent a wheelchair from easily moving around rooms, or make it challenging for those who struggle to walk.
Make sure you avoid clutter piling up in your home.
Final Thoughts
Designing or renovating a home is a special moment. It’ll be where you host friends, relax and work from. Why settle for anything less than maximum comfort?
Ensuring your home meets the needs of your family and guests is important in this mission to create a safe home where happy memories can be made.
The tips in this article will help you to create an inclusive space for everyone to enjoy.
