We should all have the right to live safely in our homes; however, homes are not a one-size-fits-all sort of thing, with many people requiring adaptations to their homes to enable them to live and move around safely and without risk of harm. Fortunately, there is a wide range of adaptations that can be made to homes to make them safer and more suitable places to live. Let’s look at this in more detail.
Why are adaptations needed?
The reasons people need adaptations in the home are wide-ranging. It may be due to things such as being at risk of falls, using a wheelchair or electric mobility scooter to get around, or requiring support with technology in the home. Others may require kitchen worktops to be lower, while some people may need visual cues when the doorbell or telephone rings if they have hearing difficulties.
What adaptations can be made?
Some adaptations might be easy and inexpensive to install but can make a huge amount of difference to a person’s quality of life and safety in the home; for example, grab rails can be installed in bathrooms so that a person has a sturdy rail to hold onto when they step out of the shower, minimising the risk of them slipping over.
Likewise, fitting additional bannisters or a stairlift can help someone climb the stairs safely and easily, avoiding the risk of tripping or falling.
For people who need a wheelchair or mobility scooter to get around, installing ramps to access the home can make it much more accessible.
Intercom systems and outdoor security lighting also make the home safer.
Technology in home care
Technology is beginning to play an important role in assisting disabled and vulnerable adults to stay in their homes comfortably and safely; for example, WiFi call buttons from specialists such as dinggly.com/products/wireless-call-buttons/ are an important lifeline for many.
Additionally, technology can assist with the administration of medication, communication, and accessibility around the home, allowing residents to use the internet and telephone safely and easily.