The number of people living with physical disabilities continues to rise. There are millions of residents in the United States living with different physical disabilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Out of this number, a significant portion of residents use wheelchairs for daily mobility. Accessing buildings and public spaces can be challenging due to poor accessibility features. Here are three ways in which public spaces can become more accessible for lift chairs.
1. Constructing Ramps and Widening Doorways
Ramps will come in handy for all wheelchair-users. Steel or concrete can be used in the construction of ramps, which should have a non-slip surface to mitigate any accidents. According to Statista, North America has the largest number of electric wheelchairs in the world at about 39%. While some of these wheelchairs are powerful enough to climb even the steepest ramps, manual wheelchairs might not be able to. This is why a professional contractor should be involved in the construction of the ramp to ensure it attains the required standards.
Wheelchairs are wide, and it's difficult to fit them within the standard door spaces. Public spaces can be made more accessible by widening the entryways. Widening the doorways and entrance space can cost extra, but it's a renovation worth the coin. If you're running a business, widening your doorways will attract more clients.
2. Investing in Special Washrooms
Washrooms are mandatory in public spaces. There should be at least several handicapped washrooms that should be accessible and friendly. A toilet riser will also come in handy in assisting those with trouble standing up or sitting down on the toilet. To mitigate injuries, the bathroom tiles should be non-slip. For safety purposes, all obstacles should be kept away from the bathroom.
3. Arranging Furniture Mindfully
Some public spaces may have furniture and they may limit accessibility if not well arranged. The furniture should be arranged to provide a path for the wheelchair user to maneuver through with ease. You can also adjust the height of the furniture for greater accessibility.
Making public spaces wheelchair accessible will promote a friendly environment and make the space more inclusive. When undertaking renovations, it's advisable to consult experts in the industry for guidance. Observe safety while making the spaces more accessible. If you or a family member needs access to wheelchairs or lift chairs, call us at Happy Living Medical Sales today. We can help you find the right tools to live a functional life.
