There are approximately 16 million people living with a disability in the UK, and the reality is that many homes are not accommodating for those who are wheelchair users or those who require added support to move around. Mobility can deteriorate over years which can call for more urgent adaptations to a living space. There are some changes that can be made to significantly improve the safety and comfort of your home if you have a disability or reduced mobility.
Stairs
If you’re considering renovation options to improve your comfort and safety, replacing your stairs with ramps are a great way to make your home more disability friendly. Ramps can allow you to get around your home if you’re a wheelchair user. Or, if your house is already accessible inside, you might consider outside ramps to make entering your home or building more convenient.
If you’re looking for an alternative that doesn’t include renovation, consider a stairlift. This can make navigating the stairs much easier and also safer. You can also add a banister rail for extra support if needed.
East Coast Mobility has the ability to install our stairlifts in even the most awkward places. We offer both new and reconditioned stairlifts, so you can find the best solution that also fits your budget.
Getting Around Your Home
To help getting into your bed or chair, fitting raisers can reduce the distance so you don’t have to bend as far. Rise and recliner chairs not only make it easier to stand and sit down, but also maintain good posture control and reduce back pain. Our extensive, affordable range allows you to relax pain-free, and our colour and upholstery options mean you can stay stylish while doing so!
Additionally, easy-reach grabbers are a useful tool to allow you to pick items up from low down. Shoehorns are also an honourable mention, if you require assistance putting on your shoes.
Sufficient Lighting
Ensuring the inside and outside of your home is sufficiently lit can reduce the risk of falls or injury. Your hallways, rooms and outside should be properly lit during the evenings and early mornings (especially in winter). An option to make this easier is installing motion-sensor lights that switch on automatically when you enter a room or get up from your bed in the night.
Security
Feeling safe and comfortable in your home is extremely important. If your mobility is limited, then you might feel reassured by installing an alert system in your rooms that contacts carers or emergency services. If you already have alarms or systems in place, make sure to check these regularly and ensure the volume is loud enough to alert you if necessary. A pendant alarm that can be worn around your neck or wrist is also a great option to make you feel safer if you live alone. These allow you to alert your emergency contact if needed, and some even have fall sensors.
These ideas are a great place to start if you’re looking to make changes to your home to be more accommodating to your needs. No matter your level of mobility, you should never have to compromise on your comfort and independence.
Our mobility experts at East Coast Mobility are here to recommend the best beds and chairs based on your requirements. Or, if you’re interested in a purchasing a mobility aid to suit your lifestyle, our range of wheelchairs, powerchairs and mobility scooters are designed with you in mind. Contact us today to find the right solution for you or visit our showroom to see how our vehicles work for yourself.
