How do I make my house accessible?

Author: Sharon Jang | Reviewer: Rachel Abel | Published: 25 May 2022 | Updated: ~

When looking for a home after injury, one may choose to rent, buy, renovate, or build a home. If you decide to renovate or build a house, some ways you may design your home include creating a livable house or an adaptable house.

Livable housing

Illustration accompanying How do I make my house accessible?

A house built with universal design includes no steps/stairs from the start. 7

Livable housing are houses that are developed to be fully accessible despite changing needs throughout one’s life. That is to say, they are built with accessibility in mind. This type of housing embraces the concept of universal design. Universal design is a concept in which buildings and products are created so that they are usable by all people without the need of adaptation or specialized design. Applied to a home, universal design could include designing a home without steps rather than having to add a ramp later, or having doorways wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs if needed. Universal design is most often implemented in the building phase, and is not implemented once the house is already built.

Adaptable housing

Adaptive housing are places of residence that have additional accessibility modifications for people with disabilities. This includes changes such as lowered cabinets, changing the kitchen to have leg room under the countertop, or changing the layout of the laundry room to make it more accessible.

Considerations prior to modifying your home

Illustration accompanying How do I make my house accessible?

Talking with a peer prior to making modifications to your home can be greatly beneficial. 8

Modifying your home can be an exciting but costly process. Before you start making changes to your house, some things to consider include the following:

  • What are you able and unable to do? Keep your abilities in mind and remind yourself of the key changes need to be done to help you to avoid over-designing your home.
  • Who can you turn to for advice? While there are specialized companies that exist that can provide recommendations for your modifications, also be sure to chat with another peer with SCI for advice. They may have additional insight, or referrals to reputable specialized contractors. Additionally, occupational therapists are equipped with specialized knowledge to make a home more accessible.
  • What equipment works best for you? Make sure you try out equipment to ensure that they will work for you before you buy!