Before you start
- Input from the person who will use the home
- A tape measure
- A budget, and quotes from qualified tradespeople for structural changes
Method 1 Start with an assessment
-
Step 1: Ask the person what’s hard
The person living there knows best. Ask which rooms, tasks and times of day are difficult, and watch how they move around.
-
Step 2: Get a professional assessment
An occupational therapist (OT) can assess the home and recommend equipment and changes. In many countries, health or social services offer this free; ask a doctor or local council.
-
Step 3: Prioritise safety
Start with what prevents falls and injuries, then improve independence and comfort.
Method 2 Entrances and getting around
-
Step 1: Make the entrance step-free
Install a ramp with a gentle slope (a common guideline is 1:12, which means 1 unit of rise for every 12 units of length), handrails, and a level landing at the door. Threshold ramps help with small steps.
-
Step 2: Widen paths and doorways
Wheelchairs typically need doorways of at least about 80–90 cm (32–36 inches) clear width, and room to turn. Offset hinges can add a few centimetres without rebuilding.
-
Step 3: Remove trip hazards
Take up loose rugs, secure cables, and keep floors clear and non-slip.
-
Step 4: Make stairs safer
Fit sturdy handrails on both sides, mark step edges with contrasting tape, and consider a stairlift or moving the bedroom downstairs.
Method 3 Bathroom
-
Step 1: Add grab rails
Fit rails by the toilet, bath and shower, fixed securely into solid walls.
-
Step 2: Make bathing easier
Use a shower seat, bath board or bath lift, a handheld shower, and non-slip mats. A level-access (walk-in or wet-room) shower is the most accessible option.
-
Step 3: Raise the toilet
A raised toilet seat or toilet frame makes sitting and standing easier.
-
Step 4: Prevent scalds
Set water heaters to a safe temperature or fit thermostatic mixing valves.
Method 4 Kitchen and living spaces
-
Step 1: Keep items within reach
Move everyday items between waist and shoulder height. Pull-out shelves and lazy Susans help.
-
Step 2: Use easier controls
Replace knobs with lever door handles and lever taps, and use rocker light switches or smart plugs.
-
Step 3: Create seated work areas
A lower worktop or a perching stool lets someone prepare food while seated.
-
Step 4: Arrange furniture
Leave clear routes, choose chairs with arms and a firm seat at a good height, and consider an adjustable bed.
Method 5 Support for sight and hearing
-
Step 1: Improve lighting
Use bright, even lighting, night lights, and motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms.
-
Step 2: Use colour contrast
Contrast walls with floors, doors with frames, and plates with tablecloths, to make edges easier to see.
-
Step 3: Label and organise
Use large-print or tactile labels, and keep things in consistent places.
-
Step 4: Visual and vibrating alerts
Use flashing or vibrating doorbells and smoke alarms for people with hearing loss.
Method 6 Use smart technology
-
Step 1: Voice assistants
A smart speaker such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home can control lights, heating and TV, make calls and set reminders by voice.
-
Step 2: Video doorbell and smart locks
See and talk to visitors without going to the door, and let carers in remotely.
-
Step 3: Personal alarms
A pendant or wrist alarm, or a smartwatch with fall detection, can call for help.
Troubleshooting
The home is rented
Talk to your landlord in writing. Many temporary aids, such as portable ramps, shower seats and clamp-on rails, need no permanent changes.
There’s no space for a ramp
Consider a different entrance, a portable or modular ramp, or a vertical platform lift. An OT can advise.
The budget is limited
Start with low-cost, high-impact changes: removing rugs, better lighting, grab rails, a shower seat, and rearranging items within reach.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the most important change to start with?
Usually fall prevention: grab rails in the bathroom, handrails on stairs, clear floors and good lighting.
Who can assess my home?
An occupational therapist, often through health or social services, or privately.
Can technology replace adaptations?
It complements them. Smart tech helps with control and alerts, but physical changes like rails and ramps are still important.
Summary
Start with the person’s needs and an occupational therapist’s assessment. Create a step-free entrance and clear paths, add bathroom rails and seating, keep items within reach, and improve lighting and contrast. Add smart technology and alarms, check for grants, and use qualified installers for structural work.
