How to choose a wheelchair friendly holiday home

Buying an accessible holiday home

Buying an accessible holiday home is an exciting time. But this can be a more complicated process for those of us in our later years. When choosing a holiday cottage for elderly parents, or even for yourself, there are suddenly more considerations to make in terms of accessibility and ease of mobility.

Are you, or your elderly relative, able to climb stairs easily? Or could the apparent short distance from door to road become an issue? Take a look at our simple guide below to ensure you don’t miss any key points when buying an accessible holiday home for the whole family to enjoy.

Points to consider when choosing an accessible holiday home in the UK

Stay level-headed

When buying an accessible holiday home, be sure to stick with buildings all on one level. If you are looking to buy a holiday home for the whole family, a large space with a winding staircase and steps down to the garden may seem like a good idea for elderly parents or people who require wheelchair access, this can become a problem in later years – particularly if mobility is a growing issue. There are various one-level homes, some with wrap-around porches and pretty detailing that make for great holiday escapes.

Check walking distance

The location of a holiday home is vitally important, particularly when choosing a lodge or cabin that requires wheelchair friendly access. Consider any bumps in the road or difficult terrain and how best to combat this. That way your family trips will be more enjoyable, and your time spent together will be more precious.

Prefabricated wooden homes are simple to install, as they are delivered in easy-to-assemble sections. Good holiday home suppliers will be able to assist you in finding a suitable location for your accessible holiday cottage and can also take the installation off your hands.

Steer clear of obstacles

There are other points to consider when it comes to accessibility, particularly if you would like your holiday home to be fully wheelchair accessible. Be sure to keep pathways clear around the building, and pay close attention to the doorway itself.

If possible, avoid steps up into the house – sometimes, even just one doorstep can become an obstacle. There are numerous bungalow holiday homes on the market that are not only on one level, but can be installed without any access steps at all.

Avoid complex room plans

Buying an accessible holiday home in the UK that is completely open-plan is a good idea. Keeping all living spaces close together will allow you and your loved ones to enjoy your new holiday home to the fullest. Without the complications of opening doors and having the ability to move from room to room without restrictions, the whole family will be able to relax and take it easy.

When decorating your wheelchair friendly holiday home, consider the flooring too. Try to stick to solid hardwood floors and avoid anything that may become a hazard – like carpet or rugs.

Enjoy a wrap-around porch

Of course, anyone with a holiday home should be able to relax and enjoy the sunshine outdoors. A one-level home with a porch offers a great opportunity for this. A wraparound porch is easily accessible and maintains some level of privacy too. Many bungalow holiday homes have porches with fencing and shelter from the weather. Shelter’s are perfect for families to enjoy a cup of tea outdoors, play together and eat al fresco in total comfort.

Want to know more about successfully buying an accessible holiday cottage in the UK? Contact Log Cabins Lakeland today on 01931 712044 to discuss your requirements. All of our one-level homes are designed to be easily accessible and long lasting. These homes are built from slow-grown Nordic timber for the ultimate in strength and longevity.