The ‘perfect’ home isn’t just based on aesthetics and trends. In reality, the perfect home is a space that makes you feel comfortable and safe. Since many homes across Canada date back to the early 1950’s, it’s rare to find a space or layout that is based on inclusive architecture or accessible design. Although there are a variety of solutions that can make your living space more inclusive and accessible, the price tag on home modifications and installations can be extremely steep. For individuals living with disabilities, this creates everyday challenges and barriers, both physically and financially.
These types of challenges and barriers are what make the work of March of Dimes Canada, a charity that provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities throughout the country, so integral. One of their services, the Home & Vehicle Modification Program, has provided many Canadians with the opportunity to make necessary modifications to their home. HomeStars was excited to interview Lynn and Raymond, from Windsor, Ontario, to learn about their experience with the Home & Vehicle Modification Program.
Life Before the Home & Vehicle Modification Program
Lynn and Raymond have a two-storey home in Windsor, Ontario. Their home and its space was functioning well for the two of them until Lynn had a hip replacement. After the hip replacement, Lynn began to suffer from arthritis, making it extremely difficult for her to manage going up and down the stairs each day. Raymond became her main support during this time and would carry her up and down the stairs, when necessary. What was once the perfect space had become one that was filled with new barriers and challenges for both Lynn and Raymond. It’s extremely rare to find accessibility options, like a chairlift or elevator, in two-storey homes. Thankfully, the two were able to connect with March of Dimes Canada who supported an installation of a chairlift through the Home & Vehicle Modification Program.
Chairlift Installation with Maxim Medical Supplies
Through the Home & Vehicle Modification Program, Lynn and Raymond were connected with Maxim Medical Supplies, expert service professionals who work specifically in the field of home health care, mobility, wellness, and medical supplies. When we spoke with Lynn and Raymond, they only had kind words and memories to share from their experience. They were both extremely impressed with the representatives from Maxim Medical Supplies who made contact and arranged measurements, even before approval of the project had been given. Projects that are specific to enhancing accessibility within a home can typically be time sensitive, which is why Maxim Medical Supplies ensured that they were considerate of Lynn and Raymond’s time.
Life After the Home & Vehicle Modification Program
Creating the ‘perfect’ home takes time. Whether it is created through memories or by adding necessary renovation work – it takes both love and effort. With services like the Home & Vehicle Modification Program, homeowners are able to get the physical and financial support needed to make their homes both comfortable and safe. When we spoke with Lynn and Raymond after their chairlift installation, they were both extremely happy. Lynn now has full independence to move to different floors throughout her home, on her own. Lynn and Raymond’s appreciation for March of Dimes Canada was very apparent throughout the interview and they left us with these final words.
Overall, we have a great deal of gratitude for March of Dimes Canada and HomeStars assisting with the Home & Vehicle Modification Program. Without this assistance, we would not have a chairlift in our home. March of Dimes Canada really went above and beyond and we are extremely thankful.
By providing homeowners across Canada with greater accessibility, people can find themselves getting closer to the concept of the ‘perfect’ home. With programs like March of Dimes Canada’s Home & Vehicle Modification Program, we can ensure that we are paving the way to a more inclusive and accessible future in the world of home design. HomeStars is thankful to have had the opportunity to work alongside March of Dimes Canada and to help support the Home & Vehicle Modification Program.
