When it comes to our health, we all want to do what’s best for ourselves. That means making changes to our homes to accommodate our health care needs for many people. Whether you’re a senior citizen who is starting to experience mobility issues or you have a loved one who is wheelchair-bound, there are many things you can do to make your home more accessible and functional for health care purposes.

Here are some tips for designing your home to accommodate your health care needs:

Install grab bars in the shower

Installing grab bars in the shower is important in making your home more healthcare friendly. If you or a loved one experiences difficulty standing or balancing, having a grab bar to hold onto can make showering much easier. Additionally, using a wheelchair, a grab bar can provide stability and support when transferring in and out of the shower.

Add a ramp to your front porch

If you have a front porch that is not accessible for wheelchair users, consider adding a ramp. This will make it much easier for wheelchair users to enter and exit your home. Additionally, a ramp can also be helpful for those who have difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

Ideally, any elevated surface can use a ramp to make it wheelchair accessible. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ramp design – there are many different ways to build a functional and stylish ramp.

Install handrails on stairs

If you or a loved one has difficulty walking, installing handrails on your stairs can help. Handrails provide stability and support when climbing or descending stairs, making them a crucial safety feature for those with mobility issues.

There are many different handrails to choose from, so be sure to select one that is both stylish and functional for your needs.

Create a designated area for a wheelchair

Suppose you or a loved one uses a wheelchair. In that case, it’s important to create a designated area in your home that is easily accessible. This may mean adding a ramp to your front porch or widening doorways to accommodate the wheelchair. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that there is plenty of room for the wheelchair to maneuver throughout the house.

Rearrange furniture to create more open space

Suppose you’re struggling to find enough space to accommodate a wheelchair in your home. In that case, one solution is to rearrange your furniture. This will create more open space and make it easier for the wheelchair to maneuver around.

Another option is to eliminate bulky furniture that takes up too much space. This can free up room for a wheelchair and make your home feel more open and airy.

Use contrasting colors to make spaces easier to see

Using contrasting colors is a great way to make spaces more visible and easier to see. This is especially important in areas with a lot of foot traffic or where people may be using mobility aids. By using contrasting colors, you can help people see obstacles and potential hazards more easily. There are many different ways to use contrasting colors in your home, so be creative and have fun!

Install lever door handles instead of knobs

If you or a loved one has difficulty using traditional doorknobs, consider installing lever door handles instead. Lever handles are much easier to grip and turn than traditional knobs, making them a great option for those with mobility issues. Additionally, lever handles can also be helpful for those who have arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to grip small objects.

Place non-slip mats and benches in the bathtub and shower

If you or someone close to you has difficulties walking, make sure the bathtub and shower floor is secure and non-slip. This can be done by installing non-slip mats in these areas. Non-slip mats help prevent slips and falls, which can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

You may also want to consider installing a shower seat or bench. This can provide a place to sit and rest while showering and can also be helpful for those who have difficulty standing for long periods.

Talk to your designer or contractor about your goals

Suppose you’re looking to make more extensive changes to your home to accommodate your health care needs. In that case, it’s important to talk to your designer or general contractor about your goals. They can help you figure out which changes will be the most beneficial for you and your family, and they can give you advice on how to best achieve those changes.

Making even small changes in your home can make a big difference in your health care needs. By taking the time to design your space with your health in mind, you can make your home more comfortable and functional for everyone involved.