A Quick Guide for Contractors on the Impact of Reduced Mobility in and Around the Home

As an occupational therapist, often the first time clients reach out to me is either after they’ve had a fall, or because they notice that everyday tasks like getting in and out of their shower or on and off the toilet has become more difficult, so they are looking for guidance around bathroom modifications.

If clients are reaching out to you for a similar reason, it’s important to consider that there are changes that can be made other places in and around the home, to enhance their safety and mobility and this should be discussed with them.

• Are they able to comfortably manage the stairs in and out of their home?
• If not, would they benefit from having the entrance/exit adapted?
  • This could mean adding handrails, a porch lift or a ramp.
    • OTs can assist with assessing which adaptation is most functional based on the individuals needs and potentially with funding if required
  • Steps should be even heights

Hazards to watch for are uneven sidewalks and stepping stones

• If the individual does not have a cane or walker, but you see them reaching out for furniture or walls for stability as they navigate their home, this is often a sign they would benefit from equipment. OTs can assist in getting them connected to the right mobility aid.
• If the individual begins using a walker or wheelchair, consider if the current width of their doorways will allow them to use their mobility aid
  • Replace doorknobs with lever handles for ease of use.
  • Remove or minimize transitions between different types of flooring.
  • Keep hallways clear of furniture, decor, and clutter to avoid obstacles.

• Consider the type of flooring in place. High-pile carpet can be difficult for walkers and wheelchairs to go through, where as low-pile carpet or hardwood is a smoother surface to roll on.
• If electrical outlets are positioned behind furniture and low to the ground, this can become a tripping hazard. If possible, create accessible outlets at a reachable height, usually 15 to 18 inches from the floor.
• Can consider the use of automated functions such as remote or voice-controlled access to lighting, fans, and entertainment systems.

• Consider whether the individual is able to reach the items they need.
• Adapting cabinets to have pull-down shelving or pull-out shelves and drawers can improve accessibility
• Use lever or touchless faucets for easier operation at sinks
• D-shaped pulls or push-to open cabinets do not require grip strength to open

• Consider the amount of space around one’s bed. Ensure there is ample space around the bed for wheelchair or walker access. If there is not ample space, does that mean acquiring a smaller bed or is there a way to expand the size of the bedroom?
• Consider the individual’s ability to access their closet and whether or not the height of closet rods need to be lowered or if additional shelving needs to be added

• If stairs are difficult to navigate, consider whether having bilateral handrails would provide adequate stability or if the provision fo a stairlift would be more beneficial
• Ensure staircase is well lit and there is access to light switches and top and bottom of stairs
• Adding non-slip strips or nosing to the edge of the stairs can assist with stability and visual contrast

• If there is space for laundry on the main floor, consider adapting a space to allow individual access to this
• Choose front-loading washers and dryers on pedestals for easy access without bending.
• Include a counter at a height that is comfortable to fold clothes or sort laundry.
• Lower cabinets and shelving or use pull-out drawers for easy access to laundry supplies.

• If the individual is having difficulty getting in and out of a tub-shower, an OT can help determine whether equipment vs a tub cut out vs a zero-threshold shower would best meet the individuals needs and budget
• If client is having difficulty on stairs and is already using a mobility aid, likely a zero-threshold shower would be most beneficial
• Adding a handheld shower alongside a shower chair (removable) would further enhance safety
• If completing a bathroom renovation, ensure backing is installed behind shower walls to allow the future placement of grab bars
  • Grab bars do not install safely into fibreglass as this can crack the fibreglass and reduce how secure the grab bar is in place

These adaptations can greatly enhance accessibility and make the home safer and more comfortable for individuals with mobility challenges.

The guidelines provided above are general guidelines for supporting an individual with mobility challenges in some physical adaptations they can make to their home, but as we age, we are often impacted by more than a decline in mobility. Older adults may experience vision changes, cognitive changes, progressive illnesses etc. and the more complex of a presentation an individual has, the more you’re likely to benefit from an OT consult who can help take these additional considerations into account.

 The National Standard of Canada’s Accessible Dwellings Guide
 The Government of Alberta’s Barrier Free Design Guide

This post was originally shared on: https://happyplacespaces.com/2024/11/04/downsizing-property-cheatsheet-key-considerations-for-senior-friendly-living/?mc_cid=2702483f17&mc_eid=be022277bb