3 Helpful Home Modifications for Older Australians Living Independently

Disabilities become more common with age — the latest research from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2018) shows that there are around 4.4 million Australians with a disability, including one in two people over the age of 65. While we all want to stay active and independent for as long as possible, sometimes living at home can become more challenging with age.

With this in mind, it’s essential to install home modifications so you can maintain your independence and lifestyle with minimal assistance from your friends and family. In this article, we share three helpful home modifications to make living at home easier and safer for older Australians!

Bathroom or "Grab" Rails

Grab rails are designed to improve your confidence and mobility moving around at home. Grab rails can make movement easier and more comfortable if you’re worried about slippery bathroom floors or simply need a hand getting out of your favourite chair. 

• Increased mobility — Bathroom rails don’t have to be installed in the bathroom. These rails can be installed wherever you need a hand getting up from awkward positions (e.g. chairs, the dining room table or bed).
   
• Reduced injuries — The most important benefit of installing grab rails is improved safety. Slippery bathrooms are hazardous for people of all ages, but falls can be particularly damaging for older adults. With grab rails installed around the toilet, bath and shower, falls are far less likely to occur.
   
• Confidence — If you have weak knees, reduced muscle strength or a disability you may need help with smaller tasks at home. Grab rails can provide the freedom and confidence you need to get on with your daily tasks without having to rely on anyone else!

Browse through our collection of bathroom grab rails and check out online for fast, affordable shipping!

Wider Doorways and Hallways

If you regularly use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, we recommend investing in wider doorways and hallways to ensure you can navigate your home unimpeded. 

In Australia, the standard door width is 820mm — just short of the recommended wheelchair access width of 850mm. With this in mind, we recommend talking to a renovation specialist about expanding the doors and halls from 850mm to 920mm for easier access. 

It’s also crucial to think about door clearance — there should be no obstruction for the door to complete a 90-degree turn or more, so you can pass through easily.

Ramps

According to Australian Standards for Wheelchair Access, 1:14 is the maximum gradient for wheelchair and scooter ramps, or 1:10 if the ramp is relatively short. While this standard relates to public buildings, it’s also a good rule to follow when installing ramps at home so you can easily get inside. 

At Active Mobility, we offer an extensive range of wheelchair and scooter ramps made from durable materials and designed to meet Australian accessibility standards. Browse through our collection of ramps now!

Boost Your Confidence and Independence with Our Range of Home Modification Products!

Living at home and maintaining your independence is easy with Active Mobility. We stock a huge range of home modification products that are quick and simple to install without compromising on reliability. Take a tour of our online store and shop online for fast, affordable shipping throughout Australia — alternatively, contact us for expert recommendations and advice.

We’re here to help!