Home accessibility projects you can DIY

Empowering you to make your home really yours:

Ensuring home accessibility is crucial for the comfort and safety of every family member, particularly those facing mobility challenges. Enhancing your living space with thoughtful modifications can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities.

While major renovations are an option, there are also plenty of DIY-friendly projects that proactive homeowners can undertake to enhance accessibility.

If you or any of your family members are good with the tools, or you have an amazing group of friends that are up for a renovation challenge, you should check out our Home Accessibility ideas to make your house suitable for your temporary or permanent mobility restrictions.

These home improvements are not particular to any physical or neurological condition, there are only suggestions, and you can pick the one that you or your loved one think it will improve the accessibility of the house the most.

Outdoor Modifications : Accessible Home outside

Replace Gravel Walkways: Swap gravel pathways with concrete or stone to provide a smoother surface for wheelchair and walker users.

Repair Sidewalks: Smooth out broken or uneven sidewalks to facilitate easier movement within your property.

Raised Flower Beds: Build raised flower beds to make gardening more accessible for those who struggle with ground-level activities.

Entrance Ramps: Install ramps at entrances to ensure easy access for wheelchair users. Consider professional help if it seems too complex.

Covered Driveway: Create a carport or covered walkway to shield individuals from the elements when entering or exiting vehicles.

Move Mailbox: Relocate the mailbox closer to the entrance for added convenience.

Lower Peephole: Install a lower peephole and consider a video doorbell for improved visibility and security.

Bedroom Upgrades: Accessible rooms renovations

Adaptable Furniture: Adjust furniture to accommodate disabilities. Lower beds for wheelchair users and consider higher beds for walker users.

Closet Adjustments: Lower hanging rods in closets for easy access.

Grab Bars: Install grab bars next to the bed for safer and more comfortable movement.

Communication Aids: Consider walkie-talkies for convenient communication within the household.

Optimize Furniture Layout: Rearrange furniture against walls to create an open layout for better navigation.

Bathroom Improvements for an accessible home:

Grab Bars and Shower Seats: Install grab bars near toilets and in the shower, and add shower seats for enhanced safety.

Handheld Showerhead: Replace the showerhead with a handheld version for easier use.

Toilet Riser: Install a toilet riser for ease of use and added safety.

Door Adjustments: Reverse bathroom doors to open into hallways and replace them with curtains for improved accessibility.

Non-slip Flooring: Consider slip-resistant flooring options to prevent accidents.

Kitchen Enhancements for Accessibility

Accessible Sink: Remove cabinet doors under the sink, switch to a single-lever faucet, and secure potentially harmful items.

Lazy Susans: Add lazy Susans to low cabinets and the bottom shelf of the refrigerator for easier access.

Low Surfaces: Incorporate low pull-out surfaces or a card table for simpler food preparation.

General Home Accessibility Suggestion:

Mini Ramps: Use miniature ramps at entryways to overcome raised thresholds.

Door Handle Replacements: Replace round doorknobs with levers for improved accessibility.

Open Layout: Rearrange furniture to create a more open layout for easier movement.

Secure or Remove Area Rugs: Prevent tripping hazards by securing rugs to the floor or removing them.

Widened Doorways: If possible, widen doorways for better accessibility.

Wheelchair-level Lamps: Install lamps at wheelchair level for easy access to lighting controls.

Extend Pull Cords: Lengthen pull cords for blinds and curtains for accessibility.

Home Accessibility Renovations: Professional Assistance Needed

Stairlifts and Elevators: Always consult professionals for the installation of stairlifts or elevators due to structural and electrical complexities.

Countertop and Cabinet Lowering: Seek professional assistance for lowering countertops and cabinets.

Electrical Adjustments: Only licensed electricians should handle tasks such as lowering outlets and light switches.

Intercom Installation: Professional help is recommended for installing intercoms in various rooms.

Bathroom Fixture Replacement: Leave the replacement of showers, bathtubs, and toilets with disability-friendly options to the experts.

Major Flooring Changes: Professional installers are advisable for significant flooring changes to ensure even surfaces and accessibility.

In making your home more accessible, many projects are within reach for DIY enthusiasts. However, for potentially hazardous tasks, investing in professional assistance ensures a safe and disability-friendly environment for all family members.

Prioritize thoughtful modifications that cater to the specific needs of your loved ones and make your home a haven of comfort and accessibility.