Creating a Comfortable Living Space: My Home Setup

Your living space should be a place of comfort, safety, and convenience, especially if, like me, you have limited mobility and need to adapt to physical challenges. Over the years, I’ve had to rethink and modify my home setup to better accommodate my needs. With only one functioning hand and limited use of my leg, making sure my space is accessible and comfortable has become essential to my daily routine.

Here’s how I’ve adapted my home setup to make life easier, more comfortable, and most importantly, a space I can enjoy.

1. Accessible Furniture Placement

The layout of your home plays a huge role in how easy or difficult it is to move around. For me, keeping my home clutter-free and having furniture arranged in a way that allows clear paths is key. Since I use a walker to get around, I need plenty of open space, especially between larger furniture pieces like couches, tables, and chairs.

• Tip: Keep high-traffic areas, like hallways and the space between the kitchen and living room, clear of obstacles. Moving furniture slightly away from walls also helps create extra room for turning around with a walker or mobility aid.

2. Comfortable Seating

Comfort is important, especially when you spend a lot of time at home. I’ve invested in supportive seating that helps me relax but also provides stability for when I need to sit or get up. A sturdy recliner with an easy-to-use lever has become my go-to for resting during the day. The footrest can be easily adjusted, allowing me to elevate my legs and reduce strain.

• Tip: If you have difficulty getting in and out of chairs, look for chairs with firm, high cushions that make it easier to stand up. Avoid low or overly soft couches that may be difficult to rise from.

3. Organizing for One-Handed Access

Living with only one functional hand means I need to be smart about how I organize my home. Everything needs to be within easy reach and simple to handle. I’ve rearranged my kitchen, bedroom, and living room to make everyday items more accessible.

• Kitchen: In the kitchen, I keep frequently used items like pots, pans, and utensils in low cabinets or on countertops. This eliminates the need to reach up high or bend down, which can be difficult when you’re relying on a walker or one hand.
• Bedroom: In my bedroom, I keep essential items on my bedside table, such as a phone charger, water bottle, and a lamp with easy touch controls. Drawer dividers are also a great way to keep things organized and prevent clutter from building up.
• Tip: Use labeled storage bins and trays to organize small items so they’re easy to grab without fumbling around.

4. Adaptive Tools and Gadgets

To make daily tasks more manageable, I rely on adaptive tools. For example, in the kitchen, I use a jar opener that clamps to the counter, making it easy to twist open jars with one hand. Similarly, I’ve invested in utensils with ergonomic grips that are easier for me to use.

In other rooms, I’ve added automatic lighting and power strips with easy switches. These allow me to control electronics without needing to bend down or reach awkwardly.

• Tip: Consider using voice-activated devices like smart speakers to control lights, fans, and TVs without needing to physically get up or fiddle with buttons.

5. Safe Bathroom Setup

Safety in the bathroom is a priority for anyone with mobility limitations. For me, ensuring my bathroom is both accessible and safe was one of the first adjustments I made. Installing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower was a game-changer. These bars give me the extra support I need when moving around or getting in and out of the shower.

Additionally, I use a shower chair, which allows me to sit comfortably while bathing, eliminating the risk of slipping or losing balance.

• Tip: Use non-slip mats both inside and outside the shower to further reduce the risk of falls.

6. Low-Maintenance Décor

When setting up my home, I also kept in mind that I wanted it to be comfortable without requiring constant upkeep. I’ve chosen low-maintenance décor, like artificial plants, that adds a touch of greenery without the need for regular watering and care. Similarly, easy-to-clean surfaces and furniture with durable materials make tidying up a breeze.

• Tip: Use washable slipcovers or throws on couches and chairs for easy cleaning and maintenance.

7. Relaxation Zones

Lastly, I’ve created relaxation zones within my home where I can unwind. My living room is designed to be cozy and welcoming, with a reading nook by the window where I can enjoy a book or listen to music. These little touches make my home feel like a retreat, giving me a place to relax when I need a break.

• Tip: Personalize your relaxation zones with items that bring you joy—whether it’s your favorite books, calming scents, or soft blankets.

Conclusion

Creating a comfortable and accessible living space takes time and thoughtful adjustments, but it’s well worth the effort. By organizing my home to suit my needs, investing in adaptive tools, and focusing on comfort, I’ve transformed my space into a place where I can live independently, safely, and happily. If you’re in a similar situation, consider these adjustments—they’ve made all the difference for me, and they can help you create a home that supports your daily life with ease.