Tips for Creating a Vision-Friendly Home

Living with vision loss can make daily tasks more difficult, but many home modifications can help make life easier for those with low vision or blindness. By making a few adjustments, you can create a space that is more accessible, safe, and comfortable. Here are five tips to modify your home for family members with vision impairments.

Increase Lighting Around Key Areas of the House

One of the most effective ways to help make a home accessible for those with vision challenges is to turn on the lights. Ensure that rooms are well-lit, especially in rooms where tasks like reading or cooking will take place.

• Bright but soft lights are best because they reduce glare while improving visibility.
• Keep the light level constant throughout the entire house.
• Install motion-activated lights. This eliminates the need to search for light switches, especially in dark areas.
• Adjustable lighting that can be dimmed helps avoid the eye strain of bright lights.
• Carefully placed bathroom or kitchen lighting can make it easier to find items in dark cabinets.
• Consider LED lights as they provide brighter illumination and consume less energy than traditional bulbs.
• Additionally, use nightlights and overhead lighting to keep areas well-lit.

Declutter Your Home

Clutter can be a major problem for someone with low vision, increasing the risk of trips and falls. Keeping things organized will make it easier to find items and avoid accidents.

• Make sure hallways, bathrooms, and stairs are free of obstacles.
• Move furniture to the center of the room.
• Tuck in chairs under the dining room table to avoid tripping accidents.
• Ensure that all electrical cords and wiring are secured against a wall and lamps are near outlets so cords aren’t running across the floor.
• Use clear storage containers. Clear bins make it easy to identify the contents without needing to open them.

Choose Vision-Friendly Furniture

When buying furniture, consider pieces that are easy to navigate and won’t pose a safety risk.

• Avoid sharp edges. Look for furniture with rounded edges to help prevent accidental bumps that could cause injuries.
• Use large, clearly labeled buttons. Appliances with large, easy-to-read controls will make it easier for someone with low vision to operate them.

Utilize Technology

These days there are a host of apps and smart devices to help those with vision impairments, like Alexa or Google Home, which can help make a home more manageable. The apps allow for hands-free control of lighting, music, shopping lists, home temperature settings, and much more.

Some apps also read texts and books aloud. Most smartphones have accessibility features like screen magnifiers or voice commands. Finally, consider automated systems that adjust lights or window shades based on motion or time of day to reduce the need for doing it yourself manually.

Install Safety Features In Your Bathroom

The bathroom can be one of the most challenging areas for someone with low vision, especially because wet floors increase the risk of slips and falls. To improve bathroom safety:

• Install grab bars around the bathtub, shower, and toilet.
• Non-slip mats should be on the floors to help prevent falls for someone who may not see a wet floor or puddle.

Coping with vision loss can be challenging, but these home modifications can make a significant difference and allow you to prioritize safety, independence, and comfort. Additionally, by making your home more accessible, you can help everyone feel more comfortable and safe. If you’re worried about your eye health, reach out and schedule an appointment today.