10 Ways to Make Your Home More Handicap Accessible

More than 56 million people in the U.S. have some type of physical disability, according to the 2010 census. Whether someone needs help in the kitchen and bathroom or more space to maneuver a wheelchair around the house, here are 10 ways to make your home more handicap accessible.

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Widen Doorways

Many wheelchairs and walkers are too wide to easily maneuver through doorways. Widening doorways can be a costly job (up to $1,000 in some cases), but you can use some offset hinges to help swing the door clear of the opening to inexpensively add a couple inches of space.

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Build a Ramp

A ramp to a doorway will not only help those in wheelchairs, but anyone with mobility difficulties. To build a ramp you’ll likely need a permit, so check local building codes before you begin construction. You can even build a ramp for your shed to make it more accessible.

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Add Grab Bars

Grab bars will help with stability in the bathroom—especially around the shower and toilet. A standard 1-1/2-inch diameter bar works for most people’s grip.

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toiletriser

Install a Riser

A toilet riser can make it easier for those who have trouble bending over or standing up and sitting down. Risers can be purchased at home improvement and many drug stores, and usually, cost less than $50.

Photo: Courtesy of Muscular Dystrophe Canada

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Step-In Showers

Bathtubs, with their high sides, can cause problems for those with mobility issues. Instead, think about converting the space to a step-in shower. Install a shower bench for even more support.

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Rethink Flooring

Rugs and thick carpeting can not only make it difficult for those in wheelchairs and with walkers, but they can also be a tripping hazard for everyone. Consider hardwood flooring, vinyl or ceramic tile.

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Arrange Your Kitchen for Accessibility

Those looking to make handicap accessible homes may have to make some changes to their kitchen. Try arranging appliances near the sink and counters to make tasks easier to perform. Move everyday items into lower cabinets for easy access.

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Lower Closet Rods

Consider lowering closet rods to make it easier to reach clothing. A height of about 2 feet from the floor will help those in wheelchairs.

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Replace Knob Handles

Turning doorknobs and some faucets can be a challenge for those with dexterity and hand coordination issues. Replace those round doorknobs and faucet handles with lever handles.

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Consider Furniture Placement

To allow ease of movement, make a path of at least 32 inches between furniture pieces. You may also need to raise furniture to help some people sit comfortably. You can achieve this with furniture coasters or small blocks of wood that are secured to the legs of the furniture.

Rachel Brougham
Rachel Brougham spent years working in newsrooms, for television and newspapers, and has won several awards for her writing. In 2015, she left her full-time job as a newspaper editor to focus on freelance writing and editing. She has been a Family Handyman contributor since 2017.
In 2019, Rachel lived through a major remodeling project on her home, and she uses that experience to inform her Family Handyman content. She's also an avid gardener (both native plants and vegetables), enjoys keeping up with decor trends and spends a lot of time traveling, cooking and hanging out with her family and their giant dog.