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Home office remodeling for a physical disability

Different arrangements need to be made to ensure that home office remodeling for a physical disability is effective.

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Home office remodeling for a physical disability. Photo by Yury Primakov on Flickr.When it comes to disabilities that affect mobility, working at home is often ideal. However, you'll still have challenges that must be overcome when using a home office. Different arrangements need to be made to ensure that home office remodeling for a physical disability is effective.

One of the first changes to make when planning a home office remodeling for a physical disability is space. Rearranging furniture to make better use of the space can make navigating with a wheelchair, walker, cane or other tool for mobility assistance much easier.

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Rooms with a large square area of space and a clear pathway to the door are typically the easiest to use.

It's important to take measurements of the room and each piece of furniture before making major remodeling decisions. Also, measure any items that assist with mobility to determine the appropriate dimensions for the remodeled rooms.

Door frames, the space under desks and aisles between furniture are all dimensions that should be carefully considered before remodeling.

Residential remodeling is often costly, so finding a contractor who has experience remodeling for people with disabilities is essential. A room that works for someone with normal mobility is different in many respects from a room that works for someone with disabilities and other mobility issues. Choosing the right contractor makes the task of remodeling much easier and prevents headaches in the future.

Another thing to keep in mind when planning residential renovation is the location of important office technology. The fax machine, computer workstation, printer and phone should all be centrally located near at least one power outlet if at all possible. This helps to ensure that all electrical issues can easily be managed at the same time.

If the power goes out and a power strip needs to be restarted, it's much more convenient not to have to travel around the office to multiple power outlet locations to get everything back up and running.

Light switch location is a commonly overlooked factor in home office remodeling for those with a physical disability.

If possible, have the office wired in such a way that the primary light switches are easy to access as soon as you enter the room. The last thing that someone with mobility issues needs is to enter a dark office only to have to feel around for the light switch. This problem is often dangerous, and can lead to home accidents that could easily be prevented.

If you or a loved one are in a wheelchair, then the light switch should be accessible and at the appropriate height.

Dedication to accommodating disabilities rather than ignoring them is an essential part of facilitating a productive work environment for the disabled individual. You should feel at ease in your home office. Even if you can't afford the time or expense it takes to remodel all at once, even little changes can improve productivity and comfort.

Mobility problems make life difficult, but working from a home office can be a pleasant experience with the right arrangements. Home office remodeling for a physical disability in mind presents its own set of challenges, but with the right help and tools it can absolutely be done.

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Photo credit: Yury Primakov via Compfight CC.