New Year, New Goals: Making Your Home More Accessible in 2025

As we step into a brand-new year, it's an ideal time to think about how we can enhance our homes to better suit the needs of ourselves and our loved ones. At Custom Mobility, we believe that true accessibility begins at home. By creating a barrier-free living environment, you promote independence, comfort, and safety for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges. The start of a new year presents an opportunity to reflect on our living spaces and make thoughtful changes that improve daily life. Here are some tips to help you make your home more accessible in 2025 and beyond.

Entryways: Create a Welcoming First Impression

Ramps and Thresholds: Replace exterior stairs with ramps or consider a portable ramp for easier access. Whether you need a permanent solution or a temporary option, ramps can make entering and exiting your home smoother and more dignified. Threshold ramps are a great option to eliminate small steps or uneven surfaces at doorways, ensuring no obstacle hinders your movement.

Door Width: Ensure doorways are wide enough to comfortably accommodate wheelchairs. Ideally, doorways should be at least 36 inches wide to allow for seamless entry and exit. Swing-away hinges are a cost-effective solution if replacing doors isn’t feasible, offering extra clearance without extensive modifications.

Flooring: Smooth and Safe Surfaces

Choose slip-resistant flooring like vinyl, laminate, or low-pile carpet to reduce the risk of slips and trips. These materials not only enhance safety but are also durable and easy to maintain.

Remove rugs or mats that could become tripping hazards or obstruct wheelchair movement. If rugs are essential, secure them with anti-slip pads to prevent accidents.

Keep pathways clear of clutter to ensure smooth navigation. Rearranging furniture to create wider walkways can make a significant difference for wheelchair users or those using mobility aids.

Bathrooms: Upgrade for Accessibility

Grab Bars: Install grab bars near toilets and showers for additional support and stability. These simple additions can prevent falls and provide confidence when using the bathroom independently.

Accessible Showers and Tubs: Consider a roll-in shower or walk-in tub for easier bathing. These designs eliminate the need to step over high edges, reducing strain and the risk of accidents. Add a handheld showerhead and a bench or shower chair for extra convenience, ensuring that bathing remains a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Faucets: Replace traditional faucets with lever-style or touchless options for ease of use. These upgrades are especially beneficial for individuals with limited dexterity.

Kitchens: Design for Independence

Lower countertops and sinks to wheelchair-friendly heights. Creating a space where everything is within reach empowers individuals to prepare meals and perform other tasks without assistance.

Install pull-out shelves in cabinets to make stored items more accessible. These shelves reduce the need for bending or stretching, making organization a breeze.

Choose appliances with front-mounted controls for added convenience. From ovens to stovetops, these features enhance safety and usability.

Smart Home Technology

The latest smart home devices can make daily life more accessible, offering innovative solutions for everyday challenges:

Voice-Activated Assistants: Use devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control lights, thermostats, and more. These assistants provide hands-free convenience for managing your home environment.

Automatic Door Openers: Install systems that allow doors to open with the push of a button or a voice command. These openers are particularly helpful for wheelchair users or individuals with limited upper body strength.

Smart Lighting: Motion-activated or app-controlled lighting enhances safety and independence. Adjusting brightness or setting timers becomes effortless, ensuring your home is always well-lit.

Bedrooms: Prioritize Comfort and Safety

Adjust the bed height to facilitate easy transfers to and from a wheelchair. A bed that’s too high or too low can create unnecessary challenges, so finding the right height is crucial.

Consider an adjustable bed frame for added comfort and functionality. These frames can be customized to suit various needs, from reading to sleeping comfortably.

Install closet rods and shelving at accessible heights for easier access. Adding pull-down rods or adjustable shelving can further simplify wardrobe management.

Outdoor Spaces: Extend Accessibility Beyond the Front Door

Create level pathways with smooth surfaces for seamless navigation. Durable materials like concrete or brick pavers can withstand weather conditions while maintaining accessibility.

Install a vertical platform lift or outdoor stairlift if ramps aren’t practical. These solutions provide safe and efficient ways to access elevated areas, ensuring the entire property remains usable.

Ensure outdoor seating and recreational areas are wheelchair-friendly. From accessible picnic tables to wide decks, thoughtful designs can make outdoor spaces enjoyable for everyone.

Consult Accessibility Experts

At Custom Mobility, we specialize in making homes accessible, safe, and comfortable for everyone. Our team of experts provides personalized consultations to assess your unique needs and recommend tailored solutions. From customized modifications to professional equipment installation, we’re here to help you create the environment you need. Financing options are also available to make your dreams a reality, so you can focus on what matters most—living comfortably and independently.

Make 2025 the Year of Accessibility

Designing a home with accessibility in mind is about more than removing barriers; it’s about enhancing independence and quality of life. Each adjustment, no matter how small, contributes to a more inclusive and supportive living space. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or making incremental changes, the impact on your daily life can be profound.

Why Choose Custom Mobility for Your Accessibility Needs?

With decades of experience and a dedicated team of professionals, Custom Mobility stands as a trusted name in accessibility solutions. Our commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and innovation ensures that your needs are met with precision and care.

Key Features of Our Services:

Tailored Solutions: Every home is unique, and so are our modifications. We customize every project to suit your specific requirements.

Expert Installation: Our trained technicians ensure seamless installations for ramps, lifts, and other accessibility equipment.

Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to post-installation care, we’re with you every step of the way.

Ready to transform your home? Contact Custom Mobility today for expert guidance, tailored solutions, and unwavering support. Together, we’ll make 2025 your most accessible year yet. Let’s work together to ensure that your home reflects your needs and supports your goals.