It is common for family members to offer their homes as a place to live for a disabled relative. Living with disabilities requires a pro-active approach to maintaining the environment so that it works for the disability in question, so there will naturally be some adjustments and actions to take in order to prepare for the arrival. Depending on the disability, there may have to be substantial changes or minor changes, but the key is to always be ready for whatever they need so that there is both a smooth transition period and a warm welcome. Here are four ways to ensure the move goes well.
Plan Every Detail of the Journey
Finding great movers for belongings and furniture is one thing, but people, on the other hand, need as much if not more attention when it comes to traveling. This is especially true if the journey is going to be a long one, and it may call for something like non emergency medical transportation to ensure everything goes well and there are no major hiccups. Traveling with a disability can be hard work, and if there are ways you can help, like the option above, it is definitely worth exploring.
Have an Upfront Expectations Chat
There is no real way to know how to get ready for your disabled relative moving in if you don’t know what they need. With that in mind, it is time for a conversation about their specific concerns and for you both to come up with a collaborative plan on how the best way to tackle these might be. You have a voice in this too, and it’s great to get things out in the open before moving day so there are no unresolved issues hanging above you.
Make Your Home Ready
There are plenty of things you can do in your house to make life easier, especially if the disability causes mobility barriers and requires a wheelchair. For instance, creating clear paths around rooms and furniture will make a huge difference to self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, ensuring there are no obstructions when it comes to entering and leaving will be great too. Small touches like grab rails in the bathroom and thinking about how to make it more accessible will also create a safer space too. So, there are lots of things you can do, but the question is, which ones will be useful?
Consider Your Parking Arrangements
Depending on your budget, it may be time to think about installing a driveway at the front of your property. Having parking as close to your house as possible is an extremely useful thing for anyone living with a disability. So, making life easier in this respect is a smart move that will enable more independence if they are able to drive, or convenience if you are going to be providing transport to and from places while they stay with you.
Preparing life for a disabled relative moving in is an exciting time, but one that deserves all of your attention and focus. Talk to each other about the changes and expectations, and make sure your house can live up to the task at hand.
