How to Keep Your Home Accessible for Wheelchair Users During Halloween Festivities

Halloween is all about fun, treats and spooky thrills, but for wheelchair users, accessibility can make or break their experience during parties or festivities. If you’re hosting a Halloween party, it’s important to make all your guests feel welcome so they can fully celebrate. Everyone deserves to enjoy the holiday spirit without limits, so here are some tips to keep your home accessible this Halloween.

Entryways

Before tackling any accessibility roadblocks inside your home, take a moment to think about the accessibility of your home’s entrance from the perspective of a wheelchair user. Are there any stairs or uneven surfaces leading up to your front door? If so, you’ll want to provide an alternate entrance through a side or back door, or consider using a portable ramp that is stable enough for wheelchair use. Also, be sure to keep your pathways clear of any Halloween decorations, leaves or other debris that could get caught in someone’s wheelchair, scooter or other mobility equipment.

Decorations

Eerie lighting and spooky decorations are what Halloween is all about, but they can potentially impact mobility if they are not placed thoughtfully. Try to avoid using decorations that block hallways or doorways and keep hanging decorations high enough that they will not block anyone’s line of sight or movement. Be mindful of outdoor décor as well, as inflatables and cobwebs can often take up space where someone may need to maneuver.

Table Heights

If your party layout includes food, drinks or a candy station, you may want to have at least one table that is at a comfortable height for a guest in a wheelchair, as high surfaces may not give them enough space to reach. Lower surfaces, like trays or carts, can help everyone reach refreshments more easily. Additionally, take a look at how your chairs are oriented at the table. Seating should be arranged with extra space between chairs and tables so guests can easily move around.

Restrooms

If guests will be using your restroom, do your best to make it accessible. You’ll want to make sure that the pathway to the bathroom is clear and wide enough for a wheelchair. If you have time, consider installing a grab bar temporarily if you know a guest may need it to help them transfer. If your restroom is not equipped for a wheelchair user, you could also rent a portable accessible restroom.

Indoor Pathways

Inside the house, clear space in rooms where guests will gather. Push furniture against walls and remove any potential hazards like rugs or electrical cords that might make it difficult for wheelchair users to move around freely. If you’re hosting a party in a smaller space, keep key areas—like the snack table, seating area and restroom—on the same level to avoid stairs.

Ultimately, if you’re unsure that your home has the right accessibility features, the best resources to check with are your guests! Reach out ahead of your event to ask if they have specific needs or suggestions that will make your space work for them. By showing consideration for their needs, it shows you care about making your event welcoming and fun for everyone.

Halloween is best enjoyed when everyone can participate in the fun! By being thoughtful about accessibility when planning your event, you can create a memorable, spooky and inclusive celebration for every guest. From all of us at MobilityWorks, we’re wishing you a safe and accessible Halloween!