Unlocking Accessibility: 25 Tips for Enhancing Mobility and Comfort at Home

At Staying Home Safely, we are committed to making homes more accessible and comfortable for individuals with disabilities and mobility challenges. We understand the financial constraints and frustrations that come with making homes accessible, especially for renters who often feel limited by their living situations. Thankfully, there are numerous simple adjustments and assistive devices that can provide a solution to enhancing daily life. Today we’re exploring 25 of these practical suggestions that can be implemented on a budget and without the need for extensive construction work. 

DISCLAIMER: We are in no way affiliated with any of the products linked within this article nor do we explicitly endorse them. Instead, consider these suggestions as starting points to demonstrate how your home can be modified affordably or while renting. When planning to install accessibility products yourself or with the help of family or friends, safety should ALWAYS be your number one priority. Be realistic about your needs and limitations and always follow any medical advice given by your doctor. While some of these products might work fantastically for some, they are not one size fits all! Please always do your own additional research for the best product for your own budget and safety needs!  

1. Automatic Door Opener: Installing an automatic door opener allows individuals with mobility challenges to easily enter and exit rooms without the need to manually open doors. This might be helpful in reducing the risk of falling when carrying groceries or luggage inside. Although high-end versions of these products are quite pricey, there are options in the $200 range, such as this one from eBay. 
2. Evacuation Chair: In case of emergencies, an evacuation chair provides a safe and efficient way to evacuate individuals with mobility impairments from multi-story buildings. While specialized evacuation chairs can be expensive, a basic emergency evacuation chair can be purchased for around $200. Furthermore, consider an emergency transfer sling – which can be found in the $35-$50 range. 
3. Sliding Tub Transfer Bench: This assistive device facilitates safe and smooth transfers into and out of the bathtub, reducing the risk of slips and falls. If you’re looking to save money, consider a basic plastic transfer bench, available for approximately $60 to $100, providing a safe and cost-effective solution. 
4. Adjustable Bed Frame Risers: A sleep number or other adjustable bed allows users to elevate the head of the bed, making it easier to sit up and get out of bed. The options here are endless and depending on the size and brand, adjustable bed frames can range anywhere from $300 to thousands of dollars. If you’re on a budget, look for an adjustable bed frame riser kit instead, priced between $30 to $50. These elevate the head of the bed and facilitate sitting up more comfortably. 
5. Satin Sheets: Satin sheets reduce friction and make it easier for individuals to move around in bed, promoting comfort and independence. Although there are plenty of luxury products, you can find a simple set of satin sheets for under $40 easily. 
6. Bed Rail: Bed rails provide support, stability, and independence – helping individuals to safely transition in and out of bed. There are plenty of affordable options for bed rails, ranging from approximately $30-$50. 
7. Toilet Seat Raiser: Installing a raised toilet seat makes it easier for individuals with mobility issues to sit down and stand up from the toilet, promoting safety and accessibility. You can find raisers in the $50-$100 range, such as this adjustable toilet seat raiser. 
8. Sliding Board: A sliding board assists individuals in transferring between surfaces, such as from a wheelchair to a bed or a chair to a toilet. These sliding boards are typically quite affordable, with plenty of options under $30 – such as this one from Amazon. 
9. Non-Slip Mats: Placing non-slip mats in the bathroom helps prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces, providing added safety. Perhaps one of the most affordable (and essential!) items on this list, you can find extra-large non-slip bathmats for between $10-$20. 
10. Lever Door Handles: Doorknobs pose issues to those with limited hand mobility. Installing lever door handles makes it easier for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity to open and close doors effortlessly. Plus, you can find them for less than $20 each. 
11. Small Ramps: Transition ramps or door lip ramps eliminate barriers for wheelchair users by providing smooth transitions over small steps or door thresholds. There are plenty of options under $100 depending on the size and fit you need, such as this pricier aluminum ramp or a non-slip rubber ramp for about half the price.  
12. Increased Lighting: Improving lighting in the home enhances visibility and reduces the risk of falls – consider this incredibly affordable night light or motion activated light to navigate the home safely and with ease. As smart home systems become more accessible, you might assess the benefits of voice controlled light bulbs. This set of four bulbs can be controlled via voice command or straight from your smartphone, can be set on a schedule, and provide color and dimming options, which can be beneficial for those with sensory sensitivities. 
13. Rug Grippers: Loose rugs pose a tripping hazard for individuals with mobility challenges. Consider removing loose rugs or securing them with double-sided tape or rug grippers to help prevent accidents. 
14. Bidets: A handheld bidet or bidet toilet attachment provides an alternative solution for personal hygiene, offering greater independence for individuals with mobility limitations. Handheld bidets are typically the most affordable option at approximately $30 but might pose issues with holding down a button and opening or closing the toilet lid. If it’s within your budget, a bidet toilet seat attachment for around $200-$300 might be more beneficial. This smart bidet seat on Amazon includes a remote, temperature control, drying features and more. 
15. Personal Cleaning Wand: Similar to a handheld bidet, a personal cleaning wand assists with personal hygiene tasks, promoting cleanliness and comfort. Check out this 20” toilet aid for around $50 that could easily be taken on-the-go. 
16. Shower Chair: A shower chair or bench allows individuals to sit safely while showering, reducing the risk of slips and falls while preventing fatigue. Shower chairs are typically in the $30-$70 range depending on your needs – such as this one from Amazon that includes a padded back and arms. 
17. Spill Proof Bowls: No-spill bowls and cups allow individuals to carry and hold food and drinks securely and with ease. There’s a wide array of options available, including scooper bowls designed with convenient suction cups to keep them firmly in place. Additionally, specialized drink holders provide users with the freedom to move confidently, knowing their beverages are secure and spill-free. Everyday items like Tupperware can also be incredibly useful thanks to their high sides and secure lids, offering support for individuals managing dexterity and balance issues. If you like to cook, also check out these non-slip mixing bowls! 
18. Tall Chairs: Tall chairs or stools enable individuals to comfortably sit at kitchen counters or other elevated surfaces when standing for long periods of time is not possible. What will work best for you varies on your accommodation needs, height of counters, etc., however most people prefer adjustable chairs with wheels to avoid standing while cooking or cleaning. Additionally, an adjustable work bench or table could be used in the kitchen to prep or cook meals, fostering independence for food lovers. 
19. Disposable Tableware: Using paper plates and disposable cutlery reduces the need for heavy lifting and washing dishes, making mealtime more convenient for individuals with mobility challenges. If sustainability is something you’re passionate about, consider eco-friendly compostable kitchenware. Unfortunately, using eco-friendly products adds up quickly – so there is no shame in working with your own budget.  
20. Grabber Tool: A grabber tool assists individuals in reaching items that are too high or too low to bend down, promoting independence and reducing strain. Consider placing these reaching tools in each room of your home so you always have access to what you need! 
21. Overhead Shower Attachment: An overhead shower attachment offers flexibility in the shower, allowing users to easily adjust the water flow and direction for optimal comfort. This might be a great option for caregivers assisting with bathing or individuals who can shower independently but require seating accommodations. Although you can find high-end attachments for hundreds of dollars, consider something more simple if you’re on a budget – such as this handheld shower head from Amazon for under $100. 
22. Robotic Vacuum (Roomba): Cleaning can be a huge task when you have mobility issues – vacuuming poses issues with bending down and holding too much weight, which might increase the risk of falls. A robotic vacuum cleaner eliminates the need for manual vacuuming, keeping floors clean with minimal effort from the user. Although the Roomba brand is quite expensive, you can find off-brand robotic vacuums that also mop your floor for under $200. 
23. Smart Window Blinds: For those who enjoy natural light in their home, smart blinds offer a convenient alternative to traditional blinds. These smart blinds can effortlessly open and close using voice commands or a remote control. Additionally, you have the flexibility to schedule your blinds to let in the morning sunlight or draw them shut for a peaceful night’s rest, enhancing both comfort and convenience in your home. 
24. Touch-Free Soap Dispenser and Faucet: Touch-free soap dispensers and faucets might allow those with mobility limitations to maintain personal hygiene when roll-under or lowered vanities and sinks are not an option. This touch-free soap dispenser can be purchased for under $30, while touch-free faucets typically cost at least $100.  
25. Expandable Door Hinges: Installing expandable door hinges might create enough space for wheelchair and walker users to enter rooms when widening doorways is not feasible. You can purchase swinging door hinges for as little as $15.  

 Making your home more accessible doesn’t have to break the bank. With these 25 budget-friendly tips, you can enhance mobility and comfort for yourself or your loved ones without extensive construction work. Remember, safety and practicality should always come first. Explore these options, do your research, and find what works best for your unique needs and budget. 

Unlock accessibility in your home today and experience the freedom and independence you deserve. If you have any questions or need further assistance in making your home more accessible, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Staying Home Safely. We’re here to help you every step of the way.