When most people think about home accessibility solutions, they immediately picture expensive stair lifts, elevators, or major renovations. But according to Frank Wasilewski, CEO of Access, many homeowners can improve safety, mobility, and independence with simpler and far more affordable modifications.
During a recent interview on WGN Radio with Jon Jansen, Frank discussed how thoughtful home accessibility planning can help people remain active, safe, and comfortable in their homes for years to come.
Accessibility Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Every home and every individual has different needs. That’s why Access focuses on personalized solutions rather than recommending the same product for every homeowner.
Frank shared the story of a client in Springfield, Illinois who had been told repeatedly that he needed a lift installed at his home. While many companies were pushing a costly solution, Access took a different approach.
The client was still mobile and able to walk with assistance. Instead of immediately recommending a stair lift, Access redesigned the home’s exterior staircase to make it safer and easier to navigate.
By reducing the height of each step and increasing the depth of the stair treads, the homeowner was able to continue using his walker safely while maintaining mobility and independence.
Even better, the project cost under $4,000 instead of the $35,000 to $40,000 price tag often associated with lift installations.
Why Keeping People Moving Matters
One of the most important points Frank emphasized during the interview was the value of movement.
While accessibility equipment can be life-changing when necessary, maintaining mobility for as long as possible is critical for long-term health and independence.
“The more he moves his legs, the healthier he’s going to be and the longer he’s going to live,” Frank explained during the interview.
That philosophy drives many of the recommendations Access provides. Sometimes the best solution is not the most expensive one. Instead, it may involve smaller adjustments that allow someone to continue moving safely throughout their home.
Basement Accessibility Is Often Overlooked
Basements are another common challenge for homeowners.
Whether it’s a family gathering space, recreation area, therapy room, or additional living space, frequent trips up and down basement stairs can become difficult over time.
Frank explained that Access often helps homeowners by:
- Adding safer stairways and handrails
- Improving lighting
- Installing basement bathrooms
- Creating therapy or exercise spaces
- Planning for future accessibility needs
Simple improvements today can help homeowners avoid unnecessary strain and reduce fall risks later.
Beware of High-Pressure Contractors
As spring home improvement season ramps up, Frank also shared an important warning for homeowners considering renovations or accessibility upgrades.
Be cautious of contractors who pressure you into making an immediate decision.
If someone says:
“Sign today and you’ll get a special discount, but the offer disappears tomorrow,”
that should be considered a red flag.
Frank strongly encourages homeowners to get multiple quotes and opinions before moving forward with any major home project.
At Access, the goal is to educate homeowners and provide options – not pressure them into expensive purchases.
Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
One of the biggest misconceptions about home accessibility is that everything must be done immediately.
In reality, accessibility planning is often a gradual process.
Access frequently works with homeowners to create phased plans that prioritize immediate safety concerns while helping families prepare for future needs over time.
In some cases, a homeowner may only need a few hundred dollars’ worth of improvements today while planning for larger modifications years down the road.
That approach allows families to make informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed.
Free Home Assessments Help Homeowners Understand Their Options
Frank also highlighted that Access provides free in-home assessments to help homeowners better understand what solutions may work best for their unique situation.
The focus is always on education, safety, and practical planning.
Whether someone needs:
- A Stair Lift
- Bathroom Modifications
- Improved Lighting
- Handrails
- Home Elevators
- Basement accessibility upgrades
- Or simply guidance on aging in place
the goal is to create solutions that improve quality of life while respecting each homeowner’s budget and long-term goals.