A safe home helps people live independently and confidently. In Scarborough, many seniors live alone. Climbing stairs or using a narrow bathroom can be tough. Simple, smart home changes can solve these problems and let people stay in their homes longer.
We refer to these updates as professional home modifications for accessibility. They reduce falls, improve safety, and help with daily tasks. This collection includes grab bars, ramps, roll-in showers, and more.
Why Home Safety Matters in Scarborough
Scarborough has more seniors each year. As per the 2021 Census, 12% of the population is over 65. By 2041, this will rise to 30%. Most seniors want to age in place, but many homes aren’t built for this.
Across Canada, 27% of people aged 15+ live with some form of disability, according to Statistics Canada. That’s nearly one in three. These numbers show why safe, accessible homes are important.
What Are Professional Home Modifications?
Professional home modifications are updates that make homes safer and easier to use. They are done by experts who follow safety rules and understand your needs. Common updates include:
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms
- Building ramps instead of stairs
- Widening doorways for wheelchairs
- Lowering sinks and counters
- Raising toilet seats
- Creating roll-in showers
These changes reduce risks and make life smoother for those with mobility challenges.
Grab Bars Prevent Bathroom Falls
Bathrooms are slippery and dangerous. A small slip can cause a big injury. Grab bars give support while sitting, standing, or moving. They are especially helpful near toilets and inside showers.
Experts place grab bars where needed most. Proper installation ensures they hold weight and last long. Store-bought suction bars can fall off easily. That’s why professional installation matters.
Why Roll-In Showers Are Better
Climbing over a tub edge is risky. A roll-in shower is flat, wide, and easy to enter — even in a wheelchair. These showers often include:
- Non-slip floors
- Grab bars
- A handheld showerhead
- A bench to sit on
They keep users and caregivers safe. Plus, they make shower time more relaxing and less stressful.
Ramps: A Safer Way In and Out
Stairs can be a problem if you use a walker or wheelchair. A custom ramp makes home entry safer and easier. Ramps can be made of wood, concrete, or aluminium. Good ramps:
- Have non-slip surfaces
- Include railings
- Follow safe slopes
For homes where stairs still exist, Stair Glides provide a helpful option. These allow users to sit and move safely up and down stairs. They reduce fall risks and support independence. Find out more about stair glides.
Professionals design ramps and stair glides to fit your home’s layout.
Wider Doorways Improve Access
Standard doorways may be too narrow for wheelchairs. Widening doorways helps people move freely through the house. Experts can also:
- Change swing directions of doors
- Use offset hinges
- Adjust light switches and outlets
These small changes make a big difference for daily living.
Easier Kitchens and Bathrooms
Sinks and counters are often too high. Lowering them helps wheelchair users access them easily. Other upgrades include:
- Lever-style faucets
- Raised toilets
- Lowered mirrors
- Easy-to-reach storage
These changes support independence in the kitchen and bathroom.
Smart Storage Solutions
Tall cabinets can be dangerous. You might need to stretch or use a stool, which increases fall risk. Instead, place storage at reachable levels. Use pull-out drawers and shelves to avoid bending or stretching.
Professionals can redesign cabinets and closets based on your routine.
Personalized Plans That Fit You
No two homes are the same. That’s why it’s best to work with professionals. They assess your space, health needs, and budget. Then they create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Working with a qualified team ensures all changes meet local building codes and safety rules.
Who Needs Home Modifications?
Many people can benefit, such as:
- Seniors aging in place
- People with disabilities
- Stroke survivors
- Those with arthritis or joint pain
- Post-surgery patients
- Families caring for aging parents
- Children with mobility challenges
Making a home safer benefits everyone — not just the person with mobility concerns.
More Independence, Better Life
With the right updates, daily tasks become easier. You don’t need help for every little thing. You can:
- Use the bathroom safely
- Move from room to room with ease
- Cook or clean without pain or fear
This kind of independence boosts confidence and happiness. It also reduces anxiety for family members.
Safety Modifications Save Money
A fall at home can cost thousands in medical bills. Some people end up in long-term care after an accident. Making your home safer now helps prevent that.
Many families also save money on caregiver costs. Fewer injuries mean less help is needed. That’s peace of mind — and money saved.
How Much Do Home Modifications Cost?
Costs depend on your home and the updates needed. Basic changes like grab bars may cost $200. Bigger projects, like full bathroom renovations, may cost over $10,000.
Here’s a rough idea:
Government Help and Grants in Ontario
There are programs in Ontario to help with these costs:
- Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit
- Ontario Renovates Program
- March of Dimes Home & Vehicle Modification Program
- Veterans Affairs Canada – Home Adaptations
Professionals can help you apply for funding and explain eligibility.
Choosing the Right Company
Look for a licensed, insured provider with proven experience. A trusted provider will:
- Offer free home assessments
- Share clear plans and costs
- Use high-quality, durable materials
- Help with government applications
- Offer follow-up services and support
One trusted provider in Scarborough is Lifecare Mobility Solutions. They specialize in safe home modifications, including grab bars, ramps, stair lifts, and bathroom updates. Their team works with families to create homes that support long-term independence.
Final Thoughts
As Scarborough’s population ages, more families need safe, accessible homes. With the help of professional home modifications for accessibility, people can stay where they feel most comfortable — at home.
These changes reduce accidents, improve quality of life, and save money in the long run.
If you’re considering a safer, more accessible home, contact Lifecare Mobility for expert advice and service.