Easy Home Modifications Following an Amputation
Adapting to life following amputation can be complex. Home modifications may be the last thing on your mind while you’re in the initial stage of recovery, but they’re needed to ensure you can remain independent and healthy. Our Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics team has some easy tips for you to use when making adjustments in your home.
We recommend making a list of the essential modifications you need and making changes gradually as you adjust to life with your prosthetic limb. Many home alterations can be quite costly, but many items you need can be found gently used for a reduced price.
Bathroom
Your bathroom is a frequently used room, and wet floors are a slip hazard for everyone. Modifying your bathroom can be as simple as installing grab bars near the toilet and shower and using a shower seat. For comfort, you can also consider a handheld shower head so you can move the water instead of your body if needed. We also recommend placing a nightlight in the room so you can easily see the main light switch in the dark.
Kitchen
A kitchen is used multiple times daily, and you can make easy alterations to fit your new needs following an amputation. Simple ways to make your kitchen more accessible include:
- Placing items you use most often on a lower shelf. If you’re able, consider having pull-down shelving installed.
- Use an adjustable countertop or prep area
- A one-handed faucet control works with your existing faucet and is activated with a gentle nudge
Bedroom
Your bedroom needs to be a place in your home where you feel comfortable and can relax. Placing a mini fridge next to your bed will allow you to take off your prosthetic for the night and not need to wear it again simply to get a glass of water or a snack from the kitchen. It’s also helpful to replace standard lights with touch-activated ones or opt for smart home devices that operate using voice commands. Keeping any mobility aids within reach is also a good idea.
Entryway & Main Living Areas
Motion-activated lights are an excellent solution for the entrance to your home. Nobody wants to fumble with keys in the dark when trying to get inside the house. Upper limb amputees will have a much easier time using lever door handles instead of knobs. If one isn’t already present, place handrails on every staircase to help you avoid falling. You should also try to have as many daily-living items as possible on a single floor in your home. Household chores like laundry will be much easier to get done if your washing machine and dryer are on the level of your house that you’re on most frequently.
Contact Us
The Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics team is here to help you get settled into your new lifestyle. Call us today to schedule an evaluation appointment. We have locations in Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN, to best serve our clients in the areas of Aurora and Dearborn Co, IN; Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaver Lick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY; and Cincinnati, OH.
