Around 2.7 million Canadians over the age of 15 have a mobility disability (as of 2017), and many rely on devices or equipment to help them daily. For example, almost 40% use grab bars in their bathrooms.
If you or a loved one has a mobility-limiting condition, grab bars and other types of home safety equipment can make your property more accessible, more comfortable, and reduce the risk of injuries.
But it can be tough to choose one or more solutions for your home when you have so many options. And it can be especially challenging if you’re not sure what they do or how they can help you.
In this post, our experts will explore five popular examples of home safety equipment to help you understand what benefits they offer.
Grab Bars
Splashing water and condensation can make bathroom floors and surfaces slippery. Simply walking from one side of the bathroom to the other safely is a luxury so many able-bodied people take for granted, but even the most surefooted person may be at risk if they slip on a wet tile.
That means a bathroom can be a dangerous environment for anyone, particularly if you have mobility difficulties.
Fortunately, installing one or more grab bars is a simple but effective way to increase safety in your bathroom.
These are rails of different sizes that attach to your walls and create a secure handhold. You can use these when:
● Sitting or standing at the toilet
● Climbing into or out of the bath
● Crossing a wet floor
● Staying upright while brushing your teeth
Grab bars may also enable you to enjoy more independence and (as a result) privacy by using the bathroom unaccompanied.
But they aren’t just for the bathroom — you can add grab bars to any space in your home. For example, you may find getting into and out of bed easier with a bar positioned beside it. Floor-to-ceiling poles are also available for extra stability and added peace of mind.
Ramps
Steps can become a hazard during wet or icy weather. Or they may become damaged and less secure over time.
But problematic steps at any entrance to your home may put members of your household or visitors at unnecessary risk. Replace them with a ramp at your front, back, or side entrance to boost safety and decrease danger.
Whether you use a wheelchair, cane, crutches, or just struggle to climb or descend stairs unaided, a ramp will make it much simpler to come and go. You can be more independent and get down to street level without relying on a caregiver, friend, or relative.
Ramps are available in different designs, including:
● Modular
● Custom
● Portable
Work with a reputable accessibility solutions provider to get the right ramp for your home.
Stairlifts
Going up or down a flight of stairs can be frightening for anyone with mobility impairments. It may be a long, frustrating experience with or without assistance, particularly when you feel weak.
But a stairlift is one of the most important devices to consider if you or a member of your household struggles to use stairs safely.
Stairlifts eliminate the risk of falling when ascending or descending stairs: simply sit in the seat, secure yourself with the belt, and use the controls to move to the top or bottom.
Brands create a multitude of stairlifts to suit diverse house layouts, mobility requirements, and budgets. You can choose from:
● Custom curved stairlifts
● Outdoor stairlifts
Customized stairlifts may be designed to fit almost any staircase, inside and outside your home. Go up to your bedroom or down to your garden without the fear of slipping.
Take advantage of free stairlift trials when available to find out how effective a specific model is for your home and accessibility needs. If it doesn’t seem quite right, try another!
Railings
Railings are similar to grab bars, as they provide stability around the home. But they’re significantly longer to allow travel from one space to another.
For example, you may install extra railings to your indoor staircase or fit them to a hallway wall. You’ll find your way more easily by holding the railing tightly with one or both hands. Railings can also be installed on both sides for two-handed stability.
Railings are suitable for outdoor use too. They can be fitted to external staircases, for instance, when there is no railing available or the existing one is no longer secure.
But railings must be installed at the right height for maximum convenience, comfort, and safety. You should be able to grip it without needing to stand upright or curve your spine in an uncomfortable manner.
A reputable home safety equipment provider will be diligent with measurements to avoid any issues.
Pool lifts
Love to swim a few laps in your pool to unwind at the end of the day? Enjoy spending time with friends and family in the water from time to time?
One of the only drawbacks of having your own pool is climbing in or out safely. Mobility limitations can make it more dangerous than it should be. And you may not always have someone on hand to help you.
But the latest pool lifts offer an advanced solution: make yourself comfortable in the seat while the device lowers or raises you. You can enjoy your pool safely for as long as you like without worrying about how you’ll get out safely.
Numerous pool lifts are available, with varying designs and features. Explore your options carefully, and discuss them with a provider to find the best lift for your pool.
How to Get the Best Home Safety Equipment for Your Home
These five accessibility solutions have the power to boost your safety at home.
Total Accessibility Solutions will bring you the right equipment based on your unique requirements. We have more than 30 years of experience and offer free in-home assessments.
Want to speak to a member of our team? Schedule your free consultation now!