Does anyone have experience retro fitting homes for accessibility? I got estimates for $3,000 to build a ramp but then I see portable wheelchair ramps online starting at less than $100. Also looking for advice on stair glides...or if not how others have created access to showers without a major reno. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I'd like to add to remember to take into consideration turning ratios on the wheelchair and also amount of space needed for both the wheelchair /walker & for a standing person to move around the wheelchair /walker. A lot of times the ramp is done with the thought that the individual can still do for themselves so they can open/close the door, put key in, etc. But if they actually need someone with them to do this, you need to have enough space on landings, doorways to get both through without too much squeezing.
Stairglides or stair lifts are a great devise. My advise is to purchase from a local dealer with good ratings by Better Business Bureau and reviews on Yelp etc. A reputable dealer will offer new, used and sometimes rental of stair lifts. And, they will always offer professional installation. Beware of companies trying to sell you a stair lift over the internet. Bruno Independent Living Aids is a safe bet for good, reliable stair lifts and they have an extensive dealer network. Prices vary greatly depending on your stairway and specific needs. Straight Stair Lifts general start around $1,500 used and $2,600 for new. Curved Stair Lifts start at around $9,000 and go up from there depending on brand and how many turns etc.
As for making it safer to enter and exit a shower without installing something like a Barrier Free Shower, you may want to purchase a transfer bench with a seat that slides once the user is seated. Basically the user sits down outside and next to the shower or bathtub and the seat slides into the shower or bathtub. The user can remain seated while showering for added safety. Some come with a seat that swivels as well as slides for added usability. These can be purchased on Amazon among other places for $120-$250 depending on features and material.
Still not sure about the shower issue but in the meantime there is adult day care center I can take her to...and I'm hoping the installation of a small shower downstairs won't be too expensive...
If I would have had more time I may have hired a handyman, a wood one would have been cheaper. Mine is aluminum, it also served as an exercise walkway with handles for dad's therapy.
I designed it to ADA specs, if you make it shorter, it is steeper and more difficult to climb, you need to work with the space you have. I built mine in the back door, it was lower than the front, and had more open space to work with. Mine is considered a "temporary structure" so it technically does not require a permit.
It was expensive, but worth it.
I also bought a folding temporary ramp for a single step indoors for $250 on overstock. This was very sturdy and worked well.
Both mine were in use for 3 years and are as good as new.