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- Grip & Reach Assistance Checklist
Grip & Reach Assistance Checklist
Grabbing, stooping, and reaching for things can become more of a challenge as we mature. Give your home a Lowe's Accessible Home™ Physical to determine some of the key areas that can improve overall safety and accessibility.
Tips and Tricks
- Reorganize your cabinets and closets so the most-used items are within reach.
- Declutter and remove items that you rarely use.
- Install traditional dishwashers 6 inches to 12 inches higher to help reduce bending and stooping when loading and unloading.
- Mount appliances, such as stoves, washers, and dryers, with controls on the front so it's easier to reach and operate.
- Mount wall ovens at an accessible height with front-mounted controls.
- Transfer heavy laundry loads with ease using a front-loading washer and dryer, which are excellent upgrades.
- Install energy-efficient windows that are easy to open, close, and lock and require little strength to operate.
- Position electrical outlets 18 inches to 24 inches above the floor to reduce bending and improve accessibility from a seated position.
- Install extra electrical outlets at strategic locations, such as near a bed for medical equipment or rechargeable items.
| What You May Need | Where to Find It |
|---|---|
| Appliances | |
Reduce the need for bending and kneeling by choosing dishwashers with pull-out drawers on a raised platform. | Appliances |
Install small, drawer-style refrigerators and freezers at varied heights in multiple locations throughout the kitchen to allow for better organization and easier access to items. | Appliances |
| Faucets | |
Install lever-style handles for kitchen, bath, and laundry faucets as well as in tubs and showers for those who may have trouble gripping standard designs, which are also available in a variety of designs. | Fashion Bath |
Select sensor-activated or one-touch kitchen and bath faucets because they are ideal for people with arthritis or just have their hands full. | Fashion Bath |
| Door Handles | |
Replace traditional knobs with lever door handles that are easier to grip and use than traditional knobs. | Hardware |
| Cabinets, Counters, & Hardware | |
Expand visibility and prevent less bending and reaching with cabinetry with slide-out drawers. | Kitchen & Bath |
Mount countertops in multiple heights or adjustable-heights for easier access. | Fashion Bath |
Access frequently used items from lazy Susan's in corner cabinets. | Kitchen & Bath |
Position pull-out work spaces near the oven, refrigerator, and microwave for convenience. | Kitchen & Bath |
Grab items from cabinets and vanities with ease using D-shaped and pull-style handles. | Hardware |
| Closets & Storage | |
Make it easier to see and reach items with slide-out drawers. | Home Organization |
Reach items on the top shelf with pull-down clothes rods and shelving systems. | Home Organization |
| Remote Controls & Locks | |
Use easy-touch controls to operate lamps. | Hardware, Home Décor |
Operate keyless entry locks with a remote control or keypad. | Hardware |
| Switches & Dimmers | |
Consider swapping out traditional light switches with a rocker-style switch. Rocker switches pass the "closed fist" test, which means that they can be operated using only one hand that is closed in a fist. This style of electrical switch provides increased ease of use and is available in a variety of styles. | Electrical & Lighting |
Look for dimmer switches with rocker designs, as they are easier to use compared to those that require increased dexterity. | Electrical & Lighting |