Over 100 ways to improve access at home
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Ways to improve access at home
Internal hallways, doorways and windows
This section offers solutions to the following access barriers:
- There is a step or change of level between floor surfaces
- Doorways and door handles are hard to see and locate
- The hallways and doorways are too narrow
- The window latches are difficult to reach, open and close
Note: Some of the solutions from Entering the home are also relevant.
1. There is a step or change of level between floor surfaces
- Place a wedge/threshold ramp at the step/change of level.
Contact your local Home Assist Secure for assistance.
- Install a plastic modular or portable ramp system at the step/change of level.
Contact LifeTec Queensland Inc. for information.
- Install a grab rail on the wall.
Advice from an occupational therapist is recommended prior to installing hand or grab rails.
Contact LifeTec Queensland Inc. or your local Home Assist Secure for information and assistance.
2. Doorways and door handles are hard to see and locate
- Ensure that the walls, doors and floors are all different in some way. Paint the door frames a contrasting colour to the walls and make sure that the door handle contrasts with the door to make it easier to locate a doorway.
- Avoid shiny surfaces as this may result in glare. Use matt or low-sheen paint finishes.
Contact your local Home Assist Secure for assistance.
3. The hallways and doorways are too narrow
- Remove doors to create extra door clearance. Also consider replacing the door with a curtain for privacy.
Contact your local Home Assist Secure or a tradesperson for assistance.
- Widen doorways off hallways.
These may require tradesperson assistance. Contact your nearest Home and Community Care home Modification Service for assistance.
- If door frames and walls are being damaged by equipment, consider installing corner and wall protection.
Contact LifeTec Queensland Inc. for information.
4. The window latches are difficult to reach, open and close
- Use a long-handled reacher stick to reach the window latch.
Contact your local Home Assist Secure or Technical Aid to the Disabled Queensland Inc for information.
- Install windows that have height adjustable window latches.
Contact your local Home Assist Secure or a window manufacturer for assistance.
- Arrange for the window to be serviced so that the opening/closing mechanisms operate properly.
- Install winders on windows.
These items are available from hardware and discount department stores. Contact your local Home Assist Secure or a tradesperson for assistance.
Last updated 25 July 2007
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