As a homeowner, you want your home to be a safe and comfortable place for you and your family. One of the most important things to consider — especially if you have older adults or persons with disabilities — is accessibility. Home accessibility solutions are designed to help those with mobility, vision, and hearing impairments, so it’s important to make sure your home is as accessible as possible.
This brief guide will provide an overview of the types of home accessibility solutions available, how to choose the right products for your needs, the pros and cons of DIY vs professional installation, and finding financing options for these kinds of home modifications.
Types of Home Accessibility Solutions
You can find countless ways to make your home safer, so it’s a good idea to understand which options are available and how they might fit your unique situation. From ramps and lift installations to wider doorways and hallways, grab bars, stairlifts, or automated lighting and temperature controls, you have many possibilities at your disposal. For a full accessibility checklist click here.
Mobility Solutions
Ramps and lifts provide easier access to doorways, hallways, and other areas of the home. They can be installed either permanently or temporarily depending on your needs.
Wheelchair Access
Wider doorways and hallways can provide more space for wheelchair users to maneuver around the home. Stairlifts and elevators allow access to all levels of their home without having to use stairs or ramps.
Safety and Stability
Items such as grab bars, handrails, and slip-proof surfaces can help those with limited mobility to move around the home — especially slippery areas such as bathrooms — more easily and safely.
Peace of Mind
Automated lighting and temperature controls offer a simplified way to help those with vision or hearing impairments to control their environment without having to ask for help.
Choosing the Right Home Accessibility Solution
When it comes to choosing the right home accessibility solution, there are several factors to consider.
Evaluate Your Needs
First, you need to evaluate your needs as a homeowner and determine which solution is best suited for your lifestyle. Walk through each room and assess potential hazards or areas where a modification would make daily living easier for family members with limited mobility.
Budget
You should consider cost and budget considerations when selecting a solution; some options may be more expensive than others depending on the type of installation required. No matter the size of your budget, there are options available to improve accessibility in your home.
Seek Professional Assistance
We strongly recommend consulting with a professional contractor or accessibility expert who can help you make an informed decision about which solutions are right for you and your home.
DIY vs Professional Installation
When it comes to installing home accessibility solutions, you have two options: doing it yourself or hiring a professional. DIY solutions can be cheaper in some cases but they also require more time and effort on your part.
Hiring a professional has the benefit of having someone who is experienced in installing these solutions. They can advise you on the best course of action and ensure that everything is installed correctly.
In most cases, it’s best to hire a professional. It’s worth the expense and effort to make sure your home modifications are done correctly, reliably, and according to building codes and laws.
Financing Home Accessibility Solutions
Financing home accessibility solutions can be a daunting task for many homeowners but there are several options available.
Grants
Governments often offer grants and subsidies for those who need financial assistance with these solutions. in some cases, these grants can cover up to 50% of the cost.
Loans
Private financing options such as loans and credit cards may also be available. Be sure to do your research with these options as higher interest rates can make projects considerably more expensive.
Out of Pocket
If you or other family members have access to funds for home improvements, it’s a worthwhile investment. Not only will you avoid paying back long-term loans, but you are also adding value to your home.
Local Assistance Programs
Many states and municipalities offer assistance for home modifications, particularly for families or residents with disabilities or who want to age in place. Speak with your local government or agency, or contact the team at Havenside for guidance.
To maximize financial assistance, it’s important to research all of your options and speak with a financial advisor about what’s best for your situation.
Get Help from Havenside
Home accessibility solutions are an important part of ensuring that your home is safe and comfortable for everyone who lives there. It’s essential for your family’s health and well-being to make sure your home provides a secure and stable environment for day-to-day living.
For more information about home accessibility solutions or other safety modifications, contact us at Havenside today.
