Height barriers can include door thresholds, steps or transitions from one material thickness to another. Most thresholds are only ½” to 2” high, but can cause huge problems for someone with mobility issues like Bob. Outdated flooring can cause anyone to slip and are a potential safety hazard. Obstacles like these can be greatly reduced by implementing one or more of these simple changes:
- Eliminate height barriers by purchasing unobtrusive threshold ramps. These ramps are typically made of rubber and install quickly and easily.
- Install grab bars by the stairs or mount a railing system.
- Help Bob easily access his home with an exterior ramp. Customize the ramp elevation for his individual needs.
- Ramps with outside curbs are a good choice. They are built at a very low slope and prevent wheelchairs, walkers or feet from slipping off the edge.
- Where ramps don’t fit, a small vertical lift may work. Minimize changes in the height of adjacent flooring materials or install a threshold ramp.
- Replace old flooring with the latest in non-skid and attractive materials. Illuminate floor height transitions by using contrasting colors.
