There are more than ten million disabled people living in the UK but far fewer properties that have been adapted to meet the needs of people living with disabilities or mobility issues. Here are some tips on how to create a bedroom that is both comfortable and accessible for everyone who uses it.
The Bed
Opting for bed frames rather than divan styles can help you get closer to the bed with a mobility aid and will make transferring in and out of your bed easier. Ensure that your bed is placed in the room in a way that maximizes floor space around the bed so that you and your mobility aid or carers can easily access it.
You may want to choose a position that allows for space on three out of four sides of the bed so that you have multiple options for getting in and out. Alternatively, you might decide to push one side of your bed against a wall if you’d prefer to be able to lean against it or push onto it without worrying about it moving away from you.
Wardrobes
If you have limited space then opting for modular storage with pull-down racks can be a great way to store clothes in a way that keeps them accessible but if you’re looking for a more permanent and sturdy option, wardrobes with sliding doors are a great space-saver and can reduce the likelihood of accidents when trying to avoid open doors.
Consider where your wardrobe will be best placed to allow you to access it and whether you need your clothing and accessories to be accessible from a seated height, for example, if you typically use a wheelchair.
Grab Rails
Grab rails are an essential component of making a home accessible and that includes the bedroom. You might want to have grab rails beside your bed for leverage when moving in and out of your bed or to help you adjust your position when in bed. You could also place grab bars near a wardrobe or dressing table to help you feel safe and secure when getting ready for the day.
Flooring
Not only is laminate or real wood flooring sturdy and easy to clean and maintain but it can be far easier for wheelchairs and other mobility aids, such as rollators and zimmer frames to move across and grip to. Try to avoid thick pile carpets, which will make it very difficult for mobility aids to roll over smoothly, or loose rugs, which can be a trip hazard. Some hard flooring, such as tile can also be hazardous as it becomes very slippery when wet or polished, which can increase the risk of slips, trips and falls.
Instead, opt for durable, even floor surfaces in your accessible bedroom to ensure it’s both safe and comfortable for your needs.
Read Also
- Discover Innovative Methods of San Diego’s Substance Abuse TreatmentsWhen it comes to handling substance abuse, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different levels of substance abuse require varying care to meet the person’s needs and then get them back on track. In San Diego, you can find a variety of innovative solutions, including an intensive outpatient program that provides flexibility, support, and accountability to… Read more: Discover Innovative Methods of San Diego’s Substance Abuse Treatments
- Why Does My Crown Hurt? Understanding the Causes and SolutionsDental crowns are common restorative treatments used to restore teeth that are damaged or decayed. While crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, some patients experience discomfort or pain after getting one. If you’re wondering, “Why does my crown hurt?” you’re not alone. Pain after a crown procedure can stem from a variety of… Read more: Why Does My Crown Hurt? Understanding the Causes and Solutions
- How Medical Spa Services Are Evolving to Meet Modern Health NeedsAs wellness and self-care have taken center stage in healthcare, medical spa services have transformed to meet diverse, modern health needs. These facilities, combining medical treatments with a relaxing spa environment, are now more accessible and comprehensive, addressing both aesthetic and functional health concerns. From personalized wellness plans to advanced technological treatments, medical spas are… Read more: How Medical Spa Services Are Evolving to Meet Modern Health Needs
- Help For Managing Chronic PainChronic pain is a persistent pain condition lasting beyond the normal healing period, typically over three months, and it can significantly impact one’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. Managing chronic pain can be difficult, but numerous strategies and treatments are available to help people achieve relief and enhance their quality of life. A comprehensive approach… Read more: Help For Managing Chronic Pain
- What Is Well-being at Every Life Stage?Well-being is a broad concept encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health, and it evolves as we progress through different stages of life. Each phase—childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and older age—brings unique challenges and opportunities. Let’s explore what well-being looks like at each stage and how our needs change as we grow. Childhood: Laying the Foundations for… Read more: What Is Well-being at Every Life Stage?
- The Health Benefits of Moving into a Care HomeIt often has negative connotations, but moving into a care home can have a remarkable impact on an individual’s health and well-being. Many people associate care homes with a loss of independence or a reduced quality of life, but, in reality, care homes offer a supportive environment designed to enhance physical, emotional, and social health.… Read more: The Health Benefits of Moving into a Care Home