Home is where routines feel familiar, memories surround us and we feel most like ourselves. As our needs change, making that space easier to navigate can help us continue enjoying the place we love.
Frank from Access Elevator, Inc. recently joined WGN Radio’s Home Sweet Home Chicago to discuss aging in place, everyday accessibility and planning ahead. With a little humor and practical examples, the conversation highlighted how home modifications can support independence, comfort and dignity.
Small Changes Can Make a Meaningful Difference
When people think about home accessibility, they may picture a stair lift, wheelchair ramp or elevator. Those solutions are an important part of what Access offers, but the conversation also focused on smaller changes around the house.
Grab bars in the shower, handrails along steps, improved lighting and changes to difficult thresholds can all address obstacles in everyday routines. The starting point is understanding how someone uses their home and where they could benefit from additional support.
For one person, that might mean a more manageable entrance. For another, it might mean having something sturdy to hold while stepping into the shower.
Making Bathroom Accessibility a Priority
The bathroom was a major topic during the interview. Stepping over a tub wall, standing on wet surfaces or reaching for something in the shower can become more challenging as mobility needs change.
Frank discussed options such as grab bars, slip-resistant surfaces and thoughtfully positioned shower accessories. These details can make a bathroom more comfortable to use while addressing concerns that might otherwise go overlooked.
Accessibility is useful at any age. One of the hosts shared that their home already had shower grab bars when they moved in and that they quickly came to appreciate the extra support.
Accessibility Can Complement Your Home
A practical home modification can also look welcoming and thoughtfully designed.
During the interview, Frank described changes he and his wife made to their own home over time. When updating their front walkway, they replaced steps with a concrete ramp and incorporated landscaping and flowers around it.
The result blended accessibility into the entrance’s overall appearance. His example is a reminder that planning for changing needs can be part of the design conversation from the beginning.
Planning Ahead, One Project at a Time
You do not have to approach every home modification at once. Frank shared how his family incorporated accessibility into remodeling projects gradually.
A bathroom renovation, a new front walkway or an update to flooring can provide an opportunity to consider what will work well today and in the future.
The conversation also explored families preparing their homes for aging parents. Every household has different needs, and planning starts with listening to the person who will use the space, understanding their routines and identifying potential obstacles.
Explore What’s Possible With Access
Whether you are considering a grab bar, wheelchair ramp, stair lift or a larger home modification, Access Elevator, Inc. can help you explore solutions for your home.
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