Learn more about CFSS in Minnesota
Creating a home that caters to all abilities is essential for comfort and independence. Families in Minnesota are often faced with the task of making home modifications for elderly or disabled people in their families or children with disabilities.
Let’s explore some ideas for house modifications for disabled people so your house can become a welcoming space where everyone can easily navigate. We will also share ideas for grant programs that provide free home modifications for disabled people.
When planning house modifications for disabled family members, remember that each modification plays a crucial role in enhancing mobility and safety. Also, keep in mind your loved one's specific needs.
Take a look at these 11 ideas for wheelchair-accessible home renovations:
1. Ramp Installation: Replace steps with ramps to facilitate smooth entry and exit. Opt for non-slip ramp surfaces to enhance safety, especially in wet conditions.
2. Widening Doorways: Modify doorways to be at least 32 inches wide to accommodate wheelchair access and facilitate movement from room to room.
3. Lever Handles on Doors: These are easier to operate than traditional knobs, particularly for those with limited hand strength or dexterity.
4. Lowered Countertops and Cabinets: Placing these at accessible heights ensures that all kitchen tasks can be performed comfortably. This modification is important for maintaining independence.
5. Roll-in Showers: As you explore accessible bathroom remodeling ideas, roll-in showers offer a safer alternative to bathtubs. Adding benches or shower seats can further enhance accessibility.
6. Grab Bars in Bathrooms: Installing grab bars in your accessible bathroom renovation is a lower-cost idea. Placing these near toilets and in showers significantly reduces the risk of falls.
7. Slip-resistant Flooring: Applying this flooring in key areas prone to being slippery, such as bathrooms and kitchens, prevents slips and enhances safety throughout the home.
8. Seamless Flooring Transitions: Modifying flooring to be continuous from room to room helps eliminate hazards, allowing easy movement between rooms without obstruction.
9. Under-sink Clearance: Remove under-sink cabinets to provide wheelchair users better access to sinks.
10. Accessible Appliances: Install appliances like microwaves within reach and opt for side-by-side refrigerators to enhance independence in daily tasks.
11. Efficient Lighting: Bright, smart-controlled lighting reduces hazards and simplifies navigation, making homes safer and more comfortable for everyone.
Recognizing the need for accessible living spaces, many programs offer financial assistance, such as grants or loans, to modify homes for disabled adults. There are also loans and grants for home modifications for the disabled child living in your house. These initiatives are designed to ease the financial burden, making necessary renovations more attainable for families.
At Best Care, we are committed to providing families in Minnesota with the support and resources they need for caregiving. Our comprehensive non-medical home care services are designed to assist both caregivers and those needing care, offering administrative support and expert guidance. Contact us today for more information!
