houston505's Ideas
In the living roomAs we age, our mobility can become more restricted. Knocking down walls in adjoining living areas to create a spacious, open-plan room will make it easy to see where you want to go, facilitating movement. Keep a generous distance between pieces of furniture and walls to create pathways free of obstacles. If you need to move to a wheelchair or a frame in the future, a home with open-plan living should make it easier to get around.Future-proof plan You will need a builder to make any changes. Keep in mind that structural walls can’t be demolished without additional load-bearing buttresses or arches in place. However, stud walls, which are merely dividing space, can easily be removed.Get expert advice on knocking through in a period property
In the hallwayIf you don’t already have good access, consider widening your hallway to accommodate a big front door. It won’t just make it easier to move in furniture, it will also create the space necessary for wheelchairs and making the use of a walking stick much easier, if ever you need either. Future-proof plan Make sure there isn’t a lip at the entrance, as older people can find it difficult to lift their feet over a traditional threshold. Consider placing a seat or fixing a shelf near the front door; both could be useful places to put down shopping while you find your front door keys. According to ILCA, an automatic sensor light at the entrance will help aid entry, too. Another idea is to install a high- or low-tech emergency call system. It could be as simple as activating a personal alarm, which is often carried on the user, a call or buzzer system that can be attached to the telephone line or an intercom connected to a neighbour’s home. Another easy-to-use suggestion for opening the door is to swap a round doorknob, which becomes harder to grip due to its spherical shape, for a lever.Like this lime front door? Check out more green doors
Different wall textiles
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