3 Home Modifications for Wheelchair Users in Victoria

Aging in place is a matter of dignity during your loved one’s golden years. Life in a wheelchair can be improved with smart modifications and expert home repairs for seniors. Focus your remodelling decision on three high-traffic areas: the bathroom, the entryway, and the stairs. 

1. Bathroom Modifications

Several bathroom modifications may need to take place for easy maneuvering. 

Door Width

The first priority will be to make sure that the door is wide enough for a wheelchair to fit. The entrance to the bathroom may need to be retrofitted with a pocket door or wider door jamb. 

Floor Space 

The floor space in the bathroom will need to be assessed as well. A wheelchair-bound person will need to be able to fully rotate the chair inside the bathroom. Usually, there is not enough floor space for this, so take the advice of repair services in Victoria for removing cabinets, fixtures and tubs. 

Shower and Tub

A floor-level shower may also be a much better physical accommodation than a bathtub. It will become difficult to step over the edge of the tub. An open-floor shower can be created with the roll-in ability so that the wheelchair can be positioned directly outside the shower door, with a bathing seat directly inside the shower. 

Grab Bars and Floor Mats 

Another essential modification is a combination of stability bars and floor mats to anchor the person and prevent a slip or fall. Grab bars next to the toilet and shower are easy to install and provide a reliable way for the person to pull themselves to a standing position. Rubber floor mats lower the risk of stepping into a puddle and falling down. 

2. Entryway Modifications

Maintain a socially active lifestyle with a safer way to enter and exit your home. Remove the steps that often lead to a front door and replace them with a wheelchair ramp. This is usually done by removing the existing steps and replacing them with fresh cement.

It is also possible to install a wooden or metal ramp that leads to your door, depending on the configuration of your home and lawn. The front door to your home may need to be widened to accommodate a wheelchair. This can be accomplished by removing trim and moulding, or cutting and installing a new door. 

3. Stair Modifications

People who spend most of their time in wheelchairs do not have to be relegated to the main floor of the home. Lifts and elevators can be installed that will transport the person in their wheelchair to the upstairs landing. This allows them to use upstairs bedrooms, offices, and bonus rooms, providing important novelty and variety to their day. 

Modifying staircases also provides a safety element. The most common cause of a fall is staircases and steps. It is easy to land wrong and slip or fall. This can cause a range of injuries, from minor to severe. A variety of stairlifts are available depending on your need. Some will allow you to stay in your chair, while others let you easily slide from the wheelchair onto the seated chair lift. 

Compassionate Home Repairs for Seniors in Victoria

At Handyman Connection we understand that caring for your aging loved ones can be a delicate and stressful time. We want to help by creating reliable solutions that will help you and your family feel confident in their living space.

Each of our service providers has over ten years of experience and is thoroughly background-checked. Our work is guaranteed in writing and comes with a one-year warranty. Give us a call or visit our website today to begin the process of modifying your home.