A disability puts a loved in a different world that may seem impossible to comprehend, but that is not the case. Yes, your child is not going to be able to do some of the things you do, but that does not mean you cannot make his or her life easier by creating an accessible home. The following are five ways you can do that depending on your loved one’s issues.
First Floor
You may want to consider building an entire room for your loved one on the first floor. Stairs may not be so accessible to your loved one as you might imagine, so this might make life easier. It may take a moment to build an entire room, so make sure you have an alternative.
Accessible Bathrooms
The bathroom needs to be redone to ensure that it is accessible to your loved one. The key here is to make sure you add changes that make it easier for your child to use the bathroom safely. This means making sure that the sink is accessible from a wheel chair, that they can get into the shower or tub and that there are handrails. You also need space for to get into the bathroom with the wheelchair. Many contractors don’t have much experience with adapting an accessible bathroom, so make sure that you find someone like rwcnj.com or a local professional who will be able to think of all the details that come with accessible adaptation.
Widen Doorways
Depending on what your child has to deal with, you may need to widen all the doorways in your home. This is going to make it easier for a child to access every room without needing assistance. As you know, encouraging independence is key, and making these kinds of changes will allow you to do just that.
Leveled Flooring
Those with a child who needs a wheelchair are also going to have to make sure your home not only has a ramp, but you are also going to have to pay attention to every bump in your home. Many houses come with bumps or lifts, usually for decorative purposes. These bumps or lifts need to be removed so that your loved one can move around the house a lot easier.
Rethinking Furniture
Every piece of furniture needs to be accessible to your child. This means making sure the cabinets are reachable in every room, including his or her room and the kitchen. You should also make sure your child’s bed is accessible along with every other furniture that he or she uses.
These are just some of the many things you can change in your home to make it more accessible for them. When we make our spaces accessible to those around us, we let them gain more independence and control over their own lives. Every child and teen learns how to take care of themselves so they’ll be able to when they are adults, to the best of their ability. Creating an accessible home is crucial for personal development and self-worth. Once their own home is accessible we can work to make our communities accessible as well.
