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Remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability

Remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability in mind comes with its own set of challenges.

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Remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability. Photo by a440 on Flickr.Outdoor areas are a wonderful part of any home, particular during warmer months when you can enjoy fresh air and sun. Remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability in mind comes with its own set of challenges. Here's the basic information you need to make your loved one as comfortable as possible outside of your home.

Remodeling for a cognition disability is similar in many ways to remodeling any other outdoor area. The main difference is that greater attention to safety and ease of movement is required.

Many backyards have pools, which can pose a hazard to the safety of people with disabilities related to cognition. Many people with cognition disabilities suffer from bouts of temporary and prolonged confusion in which they wander aimlessly.

If your loved one wanders out into the backyard, it is important to make sure that they can't accidentally fall into the swimming pool. For this reason, above ground swimming pools are the safest.

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If you have an in-ground swimming pool, however, there are safety precautions you can take. Pool fences and guard rails go a long way toward preventing home accidents, as does having a locked gate.

When it comes to accommodating disabilities, it is important to work with a contractor who understands the specific residential renovation needs of someone with a cognition disability. Residential remodeling for someone with a disability requires extra care as the goal should be to maximize the enjoyment of the disabled person during their time outside while keeping them safe.

A shaded sunroom or porch where the disabled person can sit for long periods of time to enjoy the fresh air without the risk of sunburn is a nice touch. The sun produces harmful UV rays that can damage the eyes as a result of unprotected exposure. Keep your disabled loved one protected from the sun by always keeping a shaded area available outside. 

Another common issue that comes up when remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability is clutter. Common backyard and garden objects can present unpleasant obstacles for those with a cognition disability. It is important to make sure that there is a clear pathway from the door leading all the way through the outdoor area.

If your loved one requires the use of a mobility device such as a walker, cane or wheelchair to get around, it is important that they can navigate freely without obstacles.

When it comes to remodeling an outdoor area for a cognitive disability, it is important to take your loved one's thoughts and needs into consideration. You want to work with a contractor who understands their needs to create a safe and fun space. Visit the Reply! for more information on additions and remodeling.

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Photo credit: a440 via Compfight CC.