How to Alter a Home to Manage Multiple Sclerosis

People with multiple sclerosis can find living in their own home difficult. The design of a home can contribute to problems with balance, mobility, fatigue and blurred vision. With modification, a home can become safe, functional and comfortable for those living with multiple sclerosis.

Things You'll Need

• Licensed contractor

Instructions

1. Move furniture. Examine common travel patterns in the home. Reposition furniture to widen pathways. Allow plenty of room to operate wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids. Maintain access to electrical outlets and thermostat controls.

2. Analyze flooring throughout the home. Thick carpet contributes to mobility problems in multiple sclerosis patients. Smooth, nonslip floors work best. Remove area rugs or tape them in place. Modification of high door thresholds is important. Replace them or purchase threshold ramps. Install stair ramps or stair chairs.

3. Widen doorways. Allow enough room for mobility devices. Consider these modification options. Switch from standard door hinges to offset versions. Install pocket doors that slide into the walls. Remove doors for an open floor plan.

4. Balance lighting. The lighting should be fairly consistent throughout the home. Install dimmers if needed. Use plug-in night-lights to add extra light in darker areas. Use extra-long, reachable pulls for curtains and window blinds.

5. Assess height and depth for kitchen modifications. Lower some or all of the cabinets. Install pull-out bins. Select a stove top with front-mounted controls, a self-cleaning oven and a side-by-side refrigerator. Choose a shallow sink with a scald-free faucet.

6. Rethink the bathroom. Raise the commode by replacing it or installing attachments. A pedestal sink provides room underneath for a wheelchair. Mount grab bars and a magnifying mirror. Consider a range of shower modifications, including a slip-resistant bath mat, shower curtain in place of shower doors, handheld showerhead, tub seat and roll-in shower.

7. Adjust the bed. Pull it away from the wall so it's easier to make. A bed rail assists those with multiple sclerosis in changing sleeping position. Consider a hospital bed for even greater range of motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Knobs become difficult to turn with multiple sclerosis. Replace knobs throughout the home with handles.

• Make modifications in stages as needed.

• Don't attempt to make a modification without expertise. Hire a professional.

Resources

• For more information on home modifications, visit this website.