Some Special Features You Might Consider When Choosing a Granny Flat
A granny flat is a type of small apartment that is built on your property, either attached or detached from your house. While it can be used as a rental property, for adult children who need a place to stay, and the like, it's called a "granny flat" because it's often used to accommodate an elderly parent who may need daily attention but who still wants privacy. If you are having a granny flat specifically designed for someone elderly, you might want to consider some special features to include. Discuss these with a designer before work begins on your granny flat.
1. In the bathroom
Raised toilets can help those with arthritis in the knees and back, since it can be difficult to lower oneself to a seated position and then stand back up again when the knees and back are in pain. Handheld showers can allow someone who has difficulty standing to bathe themselves completely, as they can sit on a shower stool and use the handheld shower head. A ramp into the shower area can also be used for those in a wheelchair and who may not be able to actually step into the shower; they can wheel themselves into the shower, transfer to a shower seat, and then transfer back to their wheelchair much more readily when there is a small ramp into the shower area.
2. In the kitchen
Lowered kitchen counters can be good for those in a wheelchair as they can reach them more readily, and more shallow countertops can also be good. These are counters that don't extend as far from the walls as standard counters, making it easy for someone seated in a wheelchair to reach the entire counter. In both the kitchen and bathroom, special taps that can be turned on and off with just a touch can be good for those with arthritis, as they then won't need to grip the actual tap handle.
3. Remote controls
For those with mobility issues, remote controls throughout the entire granny flat can be a good choice; they can open and close blinds, adjust the thermostat, and even lock the doors without having to get up. Remotes that operate light fixtures can also be easier for someone with arthritis who cannot grip tiny switches. A main touch screen that operates all these devices can make the granny flat comfortable and safer for your elderly parent.
Contact a company like Vickers Home Improvements for more information on creating a granny flat on your property.