For those who require a wheelchair to get around, your home needs to be easily accessible. Ramps and wheelchair lifts (if you have stairs) are great ways to do this. Talk to your home builder about the likelihood of including these into your home design. At Hoek Modular Homes we offer wheelchair friendly ramps in place of stairs if required, on all our granny flats, modular and cabin homes, ask us today! 
The kitchen and living room are generally a high traffic area. Rounded-edge benchtops and furniture are excellent ways to reduce harm within these areas because if you do accidentally bump into them, you are less likely to injure yourself. Carpet flooring is also a great way to soften the appearance of a room, whilst also softening a fall. Talk to your home builder about installing soft carpet flooring and having benches, counter tops and sinks constructed at a lower level to make it easier to reach while using a wheelchair. 
For in the bedroom, mechanical lifts and adjustable beds help with getting in and out of bed. Bedside tables with a lamp assist with the luxury of being able to turn off the lights while in bed and provide a stable place for anything you may require during the night; they also make a good balance source when getting in and out of bed. 
With wet floors comes a potential slip hazard; however, the use of unpolished/buffed stone, concrete and other non-slip floorings, can assist with reducing the risk. Strong wall-mounted handrails and stools also will assist with stability, preventing a potential fall. Handheld shower heads are excellent for washing your whole body without you having to move, combined with low sinks, toilets and other bathroom facilities, your bathroom will be well designed for use by those in a wheelchair. 
When placing appliances and lighting within your house, it is a good idea to consider whether it would be reachable whilst sitting in a wheelchair. Remote controlled lighting and temperature regulation is excellent to control each room’s atmosphere with the press of a button. Low front loading washing machines, dishwashers and shallow sinks are a must for in the laundry and kitchen, preventing clothes or dishes being unable to be reached or seen whilst seated in a wheelchair. Talk to your electrician, home builder or appliance salesperson to find the best possible solution for your individual needs. 
Overall, it is a good idea to keep your home simple and clean, this is important especially for those with a visual impairment. Wide corridors and doorways create ease of access and mobility, whilst simplicity enables you to find and use items and appliances easily. Long-handled grabs help reach objects off the floor without bending. The internet is home to a wide range of gadgets that can make life easier for those with an impairment or disability, everything from kitchen utensils to specialised cushions.
Like in the house, the yard should also be kept clean and simple. Invest in plenty of lighting to ensure it is easy to find your way from your car into your home of a nighttime. Pathways should be smooth and even, any uneven ground has the potential to be a tripping hazard for the visually impaired. If you don’t know someone, and can’t yourself, it is a good idea to hire a lawn and garden professional to ensure your lawn and garden is neat and tidy, creating an ease of access whilst making your yard look great! 
There is always help available, so never feel alone if you know or are find life difficult with a disability. Companies such as Bluecare, are always there for an extra helping hand at home. Government funding and support is also available to eligible individuals. For more information on home modifications, visit the Australian Government website.
To discover our range of disability friendly homes contact us today on (07) 3889 7385.
