How to Modify a Home for Wheelchair Accessibility on a Budget

How to Modify a Home for Wheelchair Accessibility on a Budget

Making a home wheelchair accessible can be a daunting and expensive task. But it doesn't have to be. There are a number of simple and affordable modifications that you can make to improve wheelchair accessibility and create a more comfortable and independent living environment. In this guide, we'll show you how to modify a home for wheelchair accessibility on a budget.

The entryway

The entryway is the first obstacle that a wheelchair user will encounter. Here are a few budget-friendly ways to make your entryway more accessible:

• Install a ramp: A permanent ramp can be expensive, but a portable ramp is a more affordable option.
• Install a threshold ramp: A threshold ramp is a small ramp that can be placed over a raised threshold.
• Widen the doorway: If your doorway is too narrow, you can install offset hinges to widen it by a few inches.

The Kitchen

The kitchen can be one of the most challenging rooms to navigate in a wheelchair. Here are a few budget-friendly ways to make your kitchen more accessible:

• Rearrange the furniture: Rearrange the furniture to create a clear path for a wheelchair.
• Lower the countertops: Lowering the countertops can be a major renovation, but you can create a more accessible workspace by using a table with adjustable height.
• Install pull-out shelves: Pull-out shelves can make it easier to reach items in your cabinets.
• Use a lazy Susan: A lazy Susan can make it easier to reach items in your corner cabinets.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is another challenging room for wheelchair users. Here are a few budget-friendly ways to make your bathroom more accessible:

• Install grab bars: Grab bars can provide support and stability in the bathroom.
• Install a raised toilet seat: A raised toilet seat can make it easier to get on and off of the toilet.
• Use a shower chair: A shower chair can make it easier and safer to take a shower.
• Install a handheld shower head: A handheld shower head can make it easier to bathe while sitting down.

The Bedroom

Here are a few budget-friendly ways to make your bedroom more accessible:

• Rearrange the furniture: Rearrange the furniture to create a clear path for a wheelchair.
• Lower the bed: A lower bed can make it easier to get in and out of bed.
• Install a bed rail: A bed rail can provide support and stability when getting in and out of bed.

Other Modifications

• Remove throw rugs: Throw rugs can be a tripping hazard for wheelchair users.
• Install lever-style door handles: Lever-style door handles are easier to use than traditional doorknobs.
• Lower light switches and thermostats.
• Use smart home technology: Smart home technology can be used to control lights, thermostats, and other devices with your voice.

The Bottom Line

Making a home wheelchair accessible doesn't have to be expensive. By making a few simple and affordable modifications, you can create a more comfortable, independent, and safe living environment for yourself or your loved one.