Ageing is an undeniable process. Your parents will grow old. So, instead of finding a new home for them, why not make their home accessible. Majority of the elderly person wants to grow old in the comfort of their own home-sweet-home, around their loved ones. So, let’s read on to know how to make your home accessible to keep your loved ones closer.
Cost-effective Accessibility Solutions
Type Accessibility solutions on Google and you will find multiple companies offering a wide array of products to make your home accessible. However, of the many companies and products, how would you select what product suits you the best and fits within your budget. So, here is how to choose a product that meets your requirements without burdening your pocket.
- Stairlift – It is also known as chairlift. If you have a straight staircase, it is one of the most cost-effective solutions for accessibility. It is a motorised chair that aids in moving a person up & down the staircase without putting a pressure on their knees. It is a general myth that one should keep using the staircase to stay fit and mobile as it takes only one slip/ fall in the old age to cause multiple hospital visits and delayed recovery period. So, it is recommended to invest in a cost-effective accessible solution at an early stage to avoid unnecessary health issues.
- Grab Bars – One of the best products that everyone should invest in. These grab bars can take a load of 200 – 900 pounds. It is often considered as one of the best support systems in the washrooms, around the toilet, and staircase.
- Vertical Platform Lift – Also known as porch lifts or VPL. It is an outdoor platform lift, manufactured as per the external environment of North America. These are built to travel different heights. For instance, if you are a wheelchair person or use accessibility scooters, and walkers, VPL is a recommended option. It can travel from as low as 10” to a maximum 160” travel height. These come with the option of enclosure as well.
- Residential Elevator – Elevators are a more sophisticated accessibility option. The pricing range is usually on the higher side in comparison to the above mentioned accessibility products. However, if you are a wheelchair user or foresee your loved ones getting on to the wheelchair, it is one of the safest options to make your home accessible. There are 2 types of elevators in the market, shaftless and shaft ones. It is always recommended to go for an elevator with a traction mechanism rather than pneumatic and hydraulic ones.
With a wide array of products in the market, go for the ones that offer a long life with negligible after sales service. It is not an expense but an investment that will give you a piece of mind regarding the safety of your loved ones.