Retrofitting Your Home For Accessibility: Step By Step Guide

As you get older, it’s highly possible that your physical needs will change at some point, possibly because of an illness, an accident of some kind or simply just because of the passing of the years taking their toll.

Being alert to this fact is key to being able to live independently within the comfort of your own home. 

Keeping an open mind and embracing the concept of change can make the transition to your twilight years easier – and, to this end, you may want to consider retrofitting your home while you’re still fit and able to account for potential changes in strength and mobility.

 

A step-by-step guide to retrofitting a home for accessibility needs

1. Have a care needs assessment carried out

Before you make any changes, have a free care needs assessment conducted by your local council. This will help you determine what level of support you’ll need and you may find that you’re eligible for council funding, as well.

2. Identify primary areas of focus

Look around the house objectively, room by room, to identify potential obstacles, including difficult layouts, cabinet and worktop heights, bumps and cracks in the floor, narrow doorways, inaccessible fixtures and fittings, and thresholds/steps between different rooms.

3. Review lighting systems

Lighting is key for ensuring that you can navigate your way around your home safely. Make sure good visibility is delivered throughout, including hallways, along staircases and landings, and underneath kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Make sure all light switches are easily accessible.

4. Use smart technology

Making good use of technological advancements can help make your home safer. For example, you can use voice-activated or smartphone-controlled systems for windows, doors, lights and thermostats, allowing you to perform tasks without having to move around.