Home modifications are essential for individuals with spinal cord injuries to improve accessibility, safety, and independence. Common modifications include ensuring accessible entrances, bathroom modifications like grab bars, bedroom accessibility, and kitchen adaptations like lowered countertops. Other modifications are smooth flooring, handrails, lever-style handles, smart home technology, lift systems, home automation, widened hallways, and accessible outdoor areas. It is important to consult an occupational therapist or specialist to conduct an assessment and provide personalized recommendations for creating an accessible living environment.

1. Bangladesh Health Professions Institute
Department of Occupational Therapy
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy in Adult Neurology
Home modifications for individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) are essential to improve accessibility,
safety, and independence within their living environment. These modifications can be tailored to the
specific needs of the person with SCI, based on their level of injury and functional abilities. Here are some
common home modifications for SCI:
1. Accessible Entrances: Ensure that the entrance to the home is wheelchair accessible. This may involve
installing a ramp, widening doorways, and removing any barriers that could impede entry.
2. Bathroom Modifications: The bathroom is a crucial area for modification, as it presents several
challenges for individuals with SCI. Install grab bars near the toilet, in the shower or bathtub, and next to
the sink to provide support and stability. Consider installing a roll-in shower with a built-in shower seat
and handheld showerhead for ease of use. A shower bench or transfer bench may also be useful for
individuals with limited mobility.
3. Bedroom Accessibility: The bedroom should be designed to accommodate a wheelchair or other
mobility aids. Ensure there is ample space to maneuver, and the bed's height should be appropriate for
easy transfers.
4. Kitchen Adaptations: Lower countertops and adjustable-height cabinets can make the kitchen more
accessible. Additionally, installing pull-out shelves and drawers can help improve reachability.
5. Flooring: Use smooth and level flooring materials throughout the home to ease wheelchair movement.
Avoid using thick carpets or rugs, as they can create tripping hazards.
6. Handrails and Ramps: Install handrails along staircases and ramps to provide stability and support
during mobility.
7. Door and Faucet Handles: Replace traditional round doorknobs and faucet handles with lever-style
handles, as they are easier to use for individuals with limited hand function.
8. Smart Home Technology: Consider incorporating smart home technology, such as voice-activated
devices, to control lighting, temperature, and other appliances. This can enhance independence and
reduce the need for manual operation.
9. Lift Systems: For individuals with limited mobility, ceiling or wall-mounted lift systems can assist with
transfers between the bed, wheelchair, and other surfaces.
10. Home Automation: Automating various home functions, like opening and closing curtains or adjusting
the bed's position, can make daily living tasks more manageable.
11. Widened Hallways: If possible, widen hallways to allow easy navigation in a wheelchair.

2. 12. Accessible Outdoors: Make the outdoor areas accessible as well with smooth pathways, handrails, and
ramps.
Before making any home modifications, it is essential to consult with a professional occupational therapist
or a certified home modification specialist. They can conduct a thorough assessment of the individual's
needs and provide personalized recommendations for creating an accessible and safe living environment.
Additionally, some governments and nonprofit organizations offer grants and financial assistance for
home modifications for individuals with disabilities, including SCI.