Adapting the home to accommodate health issues
Have you noticed that your home no longer meets your needs? Perhaps the stairs have become a struggle, the bathroom feels unsafe, or thresholds and narrow passageways are causing difficulties. This can make you feel insecure. Your home should, in fact, be a place where you can move about freely and safely. Home adaptations do not always have to be major. Sometimes it is just a small change, such as better lighting, a handrail or a different layout. Sometimes more is needed. The most important thing is that your home suits your daily life and the things you want to continue doing yourself.
What do you notice?
A home can gradually become less suitable. You often first notice this in the little things.
You may, for example, notice that:
- climbing stairs is becoming increasingly difficult;
- feeling unsafe when showering or going to the toilet;
- barriers are difficult;
- you have difficulty getting out of bed or out of a chair;
- you have little space to move around safely;
- you cannot reach your belongings easily;
- you use certain rooms less often;
- you are afraid of falling;
- if you need more help at home.
Sometimes you may find yourself adjusting your behaviour. For example, you might sleep downstairs, shower less often or avoid using the stairs. These are signs that your home needs attention.
