Ways to make your home more accessible

Everyone deserves a home that’s easy to move around in. When you have a disability, you may need to think about this a little more than someone that’s completely mobile. There are often obstacles in and around the home that could prevent you from getting around as much. They can sometimes be things that most people have never considered.

Perhaps your mobility has recently worsened and you’re looking to make your home easier to get around in. Or, you have a friend or family member with a disability and want to make sure they feel welcomed. Either way, here are a few ways to go about creating an accessible home design.

Stairlifts offer a practical and transformative solution for individuals with mobility challenges. They can allow them to navigate stairs comfortably within their homes. These devices come in various types, such as straight, curved, and outdoor. They’re often tailored to the layout and needs of the space.

When buying a stairlift, several key steps are essential. Assess the specific staircase requirements, including its design, length, and any curves. Next, research reputable manufacturers and dealers. Read reviews and seek recommendations from professionals or friends who have used/owned stairlifts. Get a few quotes to compare prices and focus on safety features. These can include seatbelts and obstruction sensors.

Schedule a consultation with a stairlift specialist to assess your needs in person. This way you can receive personalized recommendations.

At Fish Insurance, we offer specially designed insurance cover for stairlifts. We also offer warranty cover for electrical or mechanical breakdowns. Visit our main product pages to find out if we have the right cover for you.

When it comes to navigating limited mobility, wheelchair ramps can make it easier. Not just for wheelchair access, but for those with mobility scooters, and other walking aids too. You could go with a permanent fixture if this is something you or a loved one will be using daily. Or, if it’s for someone visiting, you can get temporary ramps too that can be easily folded up when they’re not in use. Many homes have steps or at least one step up to the door. These can be hard to access when mobility is limited, so this is one simple way to make life that bit easier.

Our home insurance may be able to cover ramp fixtures and other adaptations to your home. Find out more about what we offer on our Home Insurance page.

We’ve also published a more detailed guide on buying a Wheelchair Ramp. Check it out.

Customised railings are another way to improve accessibility and safety in your home. In halls, staircases, and bathrooms they can be a lifeline for those with limited mobility. They can give the added confidence to be able to get around.

Railing heights can usually be adjusted. This is ideal to suit the needs of the person for extra comfort and ease. Go for railings that have a comfortable grip or non-slip surface for that added bit of safety. You can often choose a rail that matches your home’s style, so you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics.

The bathroom is an important area of your home to consider when it comes to adaptations. Some simple features can make a world of difference:

Smooth and level surfaces are essential for easy movement. Particularly for wheelchair users and those using mobility aids. Carpet can be a tripping hazard and isn’t the easiest to move a wheelchair through. By opting for hardwood, vinyl, or laminate flooring instead, you can avoid this.

When selecting flooring materials, consider their durability and ease of maintenance. Tell the supplier that it’ll be used in a home with a wheelchair user or a person with a disability. They should be knowledgeable on the best materials to use that will be safe and stand the test of time.

At Fish Insurance, we provide a wide range of insurance for people who have disabilities. We’ve been a specialist for over 45 years and take pride in understanding the needs of our customers.

Our insurance policies include Home Buildings Insurance and Home Contents Insurance. We’ve specially designed these policies to cover customers who have adaptations in their homes. To find out more about our home insurance visit our main page.