Homes should feel welcoming, and when a member of your family has a disability, you’ll need to make a few changes, so they feel at home. You can take it as an opportunity to test your creativity and make innovative changes to your home’s layout. You may already be aware of the wheelchair ramps, bedroom, and bathroom modifications. However, did you also know you can install lights and outlets for members of your family with a disability?

It is imperative to consider adding plugs and switches that are easy to reach for your differently-abled member, and here is how:

Lighting Elements

1. The primary objective must be to create an even light in the room and cut down on glare. The most recommended options for this are surface-mount, frosted fixtures. They create an even light without causing a headache-inducing glare. Hence, people in wheelchairs or mobility issues can navigate the home easily too. 
2. We recommend full-spectrum lighting for those rooms that lack natural sunlight. You must install the full-spectrum bulbs so that the disabled find it close to natural light. It has a calming effect on their mood because natural sunlight enlightens one’s mood.
3. The most important consideration when redoing a home for disabled members involves ensuring that all switches and electrical outlets are within their easy reach. If they use a wheelchair, they will not have to worry about calling someone to switch on lights for them. It is best to ask your electrician to install touch-sensitive or rocker switches in the home. Dimmer switches with handles, too, might be feasible. Also, consider remote-operated switches for easier access. Apart from the newer housing codes, it is also safer to retrofit outlets and switches for all of your family members. 
4. The earlier and more conventional designs often situate switches and electrical outlets in hard-to-reach, concealed places. You will usually find switches behind countertops, furniture pieces, under shelves, etc. With a disabled family member, it is imperative to create a space that feels accessible to them. You must update and relocate your switches with the help of an electrician so that your loved ones can maneuver conveniently to charge their gadgets, use appliances, etc. 
5. ADA requires appliance control and remote controls for lighting, ceiling fans, heating, and air conditioning. Apart from climate control, it does not further state requirements for the disabled, but you may want to consider it voluntarily for your loved ones. By installing convenient controls and accessible appliances, you will provide them a level of independence and safety. 

Contact Brunelli Electrician

Installing lights and outlets for disabled family members is an extremely thoughtful thing you can do for them. With such retrofitting, they can live more independent and safer lives. Here is where Brunelli Electrician can help you achieve the electrical convenience and safety possible for the special ones. Contact us today by giving us a call at 508-400-5571 or by filling out a contact form!