Mobility in the Home Checklist
Our trusted assessor qualified team are here to help in your choice of product. Make sure you get the one that best suits you and your needs.
Here are the key things to consider in your home when you have poor mobility:
Entry & Access
- Step-free or ramped entrance
- Wide doorways (at least 32–36 inches) to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs
- Lever-style door handles instead of round knobs
- Good exterior lighting and non-slip surfaces at entry points
- Grab handles as necessary at entrance (can be disguised at planters)
Flooring
- Remove or secure loose rugs and mats (major trip hazard)
- Choose low-pile carpet or smooth, non-slip flooring
- Ensure floor transitions between rooms are flush or minimal
- Keep pathways clear of clutter and cables
Bathroom or Shower
- Grab handles near the toilet and in the shower/bath
- Walk-in shower or wet room instead of a traditional bath
- Non-slip shower/bathmat or anti-slip floor treatment
- Raised toilet seat or comfort-height toilet
- Automated WC with cleansing and drying
- Handheld showerhead on an adjustable rail
- Shower chair or bench
Bedroom
- Bed at the right height for easy transfers
- Bed rail or grab handle for getting in and out
- Furniture positioned to allow clear, wide pathways
- Essentials (phone, medication, water) within easy reach
Kitchen
- Frequently used items stored at counter height — not too high or too low
- Pull-out shelves and drawers for easier access
- Lever taps instead of twist knobs
- Sturdy surfaces to lean on or brace against while standing
- A perching stool for tasks that don’t require walking around
- Kitchen adaptions are available for height and reach
Stairs & Levels
- Stair lift or through the floor lift if the home has multiple floors
- Sturdy handrails on both sides of any staircase
- Consider relocating the bedroom to the ground floor if stairs are a major challenge
- Adequate lighting on all stairways
Lighting
- Bright, even lighting throughout to aid navigation
- Night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms
- Motion-sensor lights for convenience and safety
- Easy-to-reach light switches (or smart lighting controlled by voice/app)
Furniture & Layout
- Stable, firm chairs with armrests to help with sitting and rising
- Consider specialist seating as necessary
- Avoid low sofas or chairs that are hard to get out of
- Arrange furniture to create wide, clear pathways
- Remove unnecessary furniture to reduce obstacles
Technology & Assistive Aids
- Personal alarm or medical alert system (especially for falls)
- Smart home devices for hands-free control of lights, heating, doors
- Video doorbell to avoid rushing to the door
- Always have a phone or tablet within easy reach
General Safety
- Store emergency numbers in an accessible place
- Ensure heating controls are easy to reach and use
- Consider a key safe outside for emergency access
- Regular checks that mobility aids are in good condition
- Review your garage, garden and other buildings for access issues
We work closely with a team of builders and specialist product providers to help with home adaptions and conversions ensuring the best possible support and choice of stylish products
This checklist covers the key points, but an assessment from an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or trusted assessor is always the best first step, we offer free no obligation assessments.