Given the rising cost of medical and long-term care, many patients are choosing to convalesce in the comfort of their own confines.

While there are many recovery benefits to being surrounded by familiar environs, it is crucial to design the home to withstand the added toll that medical equipment may induce on the property.

With this in mind, keep reading as we explore how to choose the right flooring and surface materials for a home needing to accommodate medical equipment. 

Best Flooring Choices for Medical Equipment

Flooring is arguably the top consideration in homes with medical equipment. It must facilitate movement without getting torn to shreds. 

This generally means that carpet is out. While some low-pile carpet can be somewhat functional, it simply cannot hold up to heavy medical equipment like other flooring types. Some of the best alternatives to carpet include:

• Hardwood - the durable, smooth surface allows the easy movement of wheelchairs and other medical equipment. Opt for the hardest woods such as oak, maple, or hickory. Apply a matte finish for non-slip benefits.
• Vinyl - this synthetic flooring is durable and nonporous. Commercial-grade vinyl with a thick wear layer will provide optimal durability.
• Porcelain tile - this masonry flooring is durable and comes in various textures for optimal traction. Ensure that grout lines are even with the surface for premier maneuverability.

In addition to their durability and functionality for medical equipment, these hard flooring options come in a number of styles to match the interior design sensibilities of any home. 

Countertop Considerations for In-Home Healthcare

Countertops must be durable if they hope to assist in at-home medical needs. In addition to basic cookware and cutlery, they may also see heavy devices such as oxygen tanks, nebulizers, and humidifiers. 

Surfaces must also be easy to clean. This will help ensure a sanitary environment that promotes healing.

Most importantly, however, the countertops must evoke a sense of “home.” It is the special ingredient that offers many patients a better recovery environment than standard clinical settings. 

For these various reasons, a kitchen with granite countertops makes a lot of sense for in-home healthcare. They are very durable and low maintenance. When properly sealed, they prevent stains and bacteria formation. This guarantees a cleaner, healthier home environment for those with medical needs. Due to its heat and scratch resistance, granite surfaces won’t be damaged by medical equipment or spills. Granite countertops offer the ultimate balance between “homey” elegance and performance peace of mind, making them an ideal choice in homes with healthcare needs. 

Prioritize Adequate Accessibility Features

The best home designs for those with medical needs will allow residents to access every square inch of the property. 

The open floor plan is a great place to start. It allows for the smooth navigation of medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and hospital beds. Pair this with wide doorways and corridors for the ultimate maneuverability.

Roll in showers with grab bars are another great idea for those needing mobility assistance. According to ADA guidelines, the ideal grab bar placement for showers will be between 33 and 36 inches.

Finally, don’t underestimate technology’s role in promoting accessibility. Voice-controlled lights and thermostats facilitate use for residents. App-controlled appliances and doorways offer ease-of-use while bolstering safety. 

Promote a Healing Environment

As mentioned, being at home can offer many healing benefits over a clinical setting. Comfort in the environment. Familiarity with the space. Greater customizability.

To this last point, it is crucial to design the space with recovery in mind. Large windows are a great place to start. Natural light can boost mood and reduce anxiety. Pair the increased window area with light-colored walls for compound benefits.

Incorporate some sound mitigation. Innovative acoustic wall panels add a touch of artistic flair to the walls while absorbing sound for a tranquil environment. Furthermore,  sustainable denim insulation in the walls not only provides great energy efficiency, but it can do wonders for blocking noise created in bustling urban settings.

Ensure top-notch air quality. This will reduce the risk of allergens and airborne toxicity. Windows are essential for optimal ventilation. Regularly change the HEPA filters in the HVAC system. It may also be worthwhile to consider backdraft dampers to guarantee the correct flow of conditioned air throughout the space. 

Guarantee Top-Notch Fire Safety

Fire safety is paramount in any home. It is underscored in those with medical equipment. Those residents tied to oxygen or needing mobility assistance need extra time to evacuate. Furthermore, oxygen and other battery-powered medical devices may be at increased risk of combustion versus standard household items.

Keep landscaping well-maintained and use as much hardscaping as possible. Explore fire resistant roofing options to limit the threat of roof fires. Choose ICF framing over standard wood panels. Make sure the smoke alarms are all in premier condition. 

Choose Materials Carefully to Facilitate In-Home Healthcare

Recovering at home offers many advantages over a clinical setting. However, in order for these benefits to be realized, the home must be designed to accommodate medical equipment. From durable flooring to added fire safety, consider any of the ideas listed above when designing for in-home healthcare. For more of the latest trends in healthcare and medical devices, explore the content at Omnimed for the leading insights in the industry!