Ideas for creating an accessible home

[MitchellMc]

Injury, disability and old age a part of life. Ensuring accessibility within the home is important for ensuring independence and comfort for all.

By making some simple modifications, you can transform your home to improve accessibility, making it more user-friendly and inclusive.

Grab rails

Installing grab rails throughout the home provides additional support and stability, facilitating safer movement in areas such as staircases, hallways and bathrooms.

Ramps

Ramps offer convenient access to the home. They can be installed over steps or to replace them, and make it easier for everyone to carry things like luggage and shopping into the home.

Hand showers and shower chairs

Hand showers and shower chairs offer flexibility and comfort during bathing, reducing the possibility of slipping and falling in the shower.

Lift assist chairs

Lift-assist chairs provide a comfortable seating solution and assist people between sitting and standing positions.

Wireless video doorbell

A wireless video doorbell enhances security and convenience, allowing residents to communicate with visitors anywhere in the home and even while away.

Security systems

Comprehensive security systems offer peace of mind by deterring intruders and providing alerts for emergencies, enhancing safety.

Non-slip surfaces

Non-slip surfaces such as anti-slip mats and tapes reduce the risk of slips and falls, making slippery or high-traffic areas safer for all.

Enhanced lighting

Enhanced LED lighting improves visibility and safety. Lighting can also help to create a more welcoming atmosphere. Consider incorporating night lights to illuminate hallways and upgrading to large wall switches for easier operation.

Door handles and automatic openers

Lever handles and automatic door openers and closers simplify door operation for everyone, but particularly enhance accessibility for people with physical impairment.

Accessible gardening

Gardening can be a great way to relax and enjoy time outdoors. Accessible gardening solutions such as raised garden beds and automated watering systems help make gardening more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

More accessibility ideas and assistance

Bunnings offers a range of convenient in-home services tailored to meet the diverse needs of homeowners. From installation to maintenance, these services provide professional support and expertise.

Subsidies and financial assistance programs often aim to support individuals in staying in their homes for longer periods. These initiatives can include grants for home modifications or accessibility improvements. Check with organisations like your local council, Services Australia, Health New Zealand or the NDIS for details.

Check out 8 ways to make your home more accessible for more ideas from the Bunnings Workshop community.

[Caron]

This is so timely. I am updating my elderly mothers home to be more  “smart”  to make life a little easier.

what is your recommendations re strip lighting (something easy to install), door cameras (Ive installed Eufy cameras this weekend).

she is technologically challenged so need simple, easy solutions. 

Has anyone else upgraded a seniors home so they can stay longer? What other things have you done?

[EricL]

Hello @Caron 

One of the easiest things I've installed are the Lytworx Warm White LED Motion Sensor Night Light and the Lytworx 1m RGB Motion Sensor LED Strip Light. The strip light was installed under the bed and the night light was strategically placed in a pattern when walking towards the toilet.

But this of course can be duplicated with by using an Arlec Grid Connect Smart Home Motion Sensor in combination with Arlec smart bulbs. Since the majority of these items work with WiFi my best advice is to install WiFi range extenders. These will help with communication between your smart appliances. 

There are other options of course such as a WiFi mesh systems, but this will require more in-depth knowledge regarding WiFi set-up.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Caron]

Thank you Eric!

Great tips - appreciate the feedback. Will look at your suggestions and see what I can adapt to suit.

[JacobZ]

Hi @Caron,

That's brilliant!

If you run into any issues, don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. There are always people here who are willing to help.

Jacob