When my husband, Mark, suffered multiple strokes, our lives changed overnight. As a senior living consultant with almost 20 years of experience, I have guided countless families through similar transitions, yet nothing truly prepares you for when it happens in your own family.
Bringing Mark home after months of rehab meant making significant modifications to ensure his safety and independence. If you or a loved one are navigating a similar journey, here are some of the most impactful changes we made—and what I learned along the way.
Making Space for Mobility
The first thing our occupational therapist pointed out was that clutter had to go. I’ve always been mindful of keeping things organized, but I loved my decorative rugs and coffee table. Unfortunately, those became tripping hazards, so we removed them to give Mark’s wheelchair a clear path. Even with these changes, I quickly learned that standard homes aren’t designed for wheelchairs. Our baseboards and walls have taken a few hits as Mark navigates tight spaces, but I remind myself that scuffed paint is a small price to pay for his independence.
Another important consideration is furniture placement. We had to rearrange our living room completely, pushing furniture to the edges of the room to create open pathways. Even small adjustments, like shifting an armchair or removing unnecessary end tables, can make a huge difference in maneuverability.
For more tips on wheelchair accessibility, check out the ADA Home Accessibility Guidelines.
Bathroom Modifications for Stroke Survivors: A Must-Do
One of the biggest challenges was the bathroom. Standard doorways aren’t wide enough for wheelchairs, and our master bathroom layout wasn’t functional for Mark’s needs. We ended up completely remodeling a downstairs bathroom to create an accessible space with a roll-in shower, strategically placed grab bars, and a wheelchair-friendly sink.
One lesson learned?
Not all grab bars work the same!
The first ones we installed were too short, so I took measurements from Mark’s rehab facility to ensure we got the right size.
Another game-changer was adding a heat lamp in the shower to keep him warm, since open-concept, roll-in showers can get chilly. A quality shower chair also made a world of difference in giving him stability and confidence while bathing.
For affordable bathroom safety solutions, visit National Institute on Aging - Home Safety.
Wheelchair Ramps and Entryway Adjustments
Navigating in and out of the house was another major concern. Initially, we struggled to get Mark through the front door safely. A simple but effective fix was ordering a heavy-duty rubber threshold ramp from Amazon. This allowed him to roll in smoothly without needing a full-scale ramp installation. We placed similar ramps at the back door so he could enjoy our backyard, which has been great for his mental well-being.
For more information on ramp guidelines, check out the ADA Ramp Requirements.
Kitchen Accessibility for Stroke Survivors
Our kitchen table was too high for Mark’s wheelchair, and I didn’t want to buy a new one. Instead, we found a workaround—he now eats at the kitchen island, which has a lower, more accessible section. I also reorganized pantry shelves so that frequently used items were within his reach, allowing him to grab snacks and drinks without assistance. Small changes like this help maintain independence and dignity.
Placing glasses and bowls on the countertop where he can reach them from his wheelchair allows him additional independence. We also keep Sadie's treats easily accessible for Mark to reward his faithful companion whenever he wants to!
For practical home accessibility ideas, visit Rebuilding Together.
Bedroom Adjustments Without a Full Overhaul
The occupational therapist initially told us that we would have to purchase a regular bed, because our Sleep Number Bed isn't compatible with bed rails, which insert between the box spring and mattress.These are great tools for helping someone with mobility issues use to help them transfer in and out of bed. Since I didn't want to purchase a new bed we explored an alternative: a floor-to-ceiling support pole (which, I’ll admit, looked like a stripper pole at first).
While it’s a great tool, Mark ultimately preferred transferring with my help. This is a perfect example of why flexibility is key—what works for one person may not work for another.
For those who need extra stability, bed rails can also be added to help with transfers and prevent falls.
Flooring Considerations for Safety
One of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of home modifications is flooring. We learned quickly that even slightly raised thresholds or thick carpets can create difficulties for wheelchair users. Thankfully, we have mostly tile and hardwoods throughout our home. The only carpet Mark has to maneuver through is in our bedroom. Initially, he needed a little help, but as he has grown stronger he refused help.
For those needing more extensive renovations, non-slip flooring like vinyl or cork can be a great investment, providing both traction and a softer surface in case of falls.
Getting Help and Giving Yourself Grace through Stroke Recovery
Despite all the home modifications, one of the biggest lessons I learned is that it’s okay to ask for help.
At first, I tried to do everything myself, from nighttime bathroom trips to shower assistance, but it quickly became overwhelming. Bringing in a caregiver was one of the best decisions I made—not just for Mark’s well-being, but for my own.
Caregiver burnout is real, and having a support system in place is crucial. Whether it’s hiring professional help, enlisting family members, or joining a caregiver support group, knowing that you don’t have to do it all alone makes a world of difference.
Final Thoughts
Home modifications don’t have to be daunting. By prioritizing safety, accessibility, and independence, you can create a space that truly supports recovery. Whether it’s a simple grab bar, a strategically placed ramp, or a complete bathroom remodel, every change contributes to a better quality of life.
If you’re facing similar challenges, know that you’re not alone.
I've gathered more resources about caregiving in my award-winning book Surrounded by Love: One Family's Journey Through Stroke Recovery.
I’d love to hear about your experiences—what modifications have worked for you? Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me via email at lori@loriwilliams-seniorservices.com.