ᐅ How can I modify IKEA HEMNES furniture for elderly people with limited mobility?

Hello everyone,
I am currently exploring how to modify IKEA Hemnes furniture—especially models like dressers or beds—so that they can be more accessible for elderly people with limited mobility. I am considering how to adjust the height or the accessibility of drawers and shelves to make them easier to reach, or how to make the furniture more ergonomic without compromising stability.
Does anyone here have good practices, tools, or perhaps ready-made modifications that can be applied to HEMNES furniture? I would also be interested in tips on avoiding additional tripping hazards or ensuring secure fastening.
I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!

kla10 schrieb:
I am currently exploring how to modify IKEA HEMNES furniture—especially models like dressers or beds—so they are more accessible for elderly people with limited mobility.

That’s a great idea! 😊 I have personally modified some furniture to increase comfort—here are a few tips that might help you:

- Raise the furniture using stable risers or secure table legs to reduce the need to bend down!
- Replace handles with more ergonomic, larger designs that are easier to grip.
- For dressers, consider installing drawers with softer glides that require less force to open.

Don’t be discouraged; these modifications really make a difference—you’ll feel much safer and more independent in daily life afterward! Good luck with your project!

The HEMNES furniture is generally made of solid wood, providing a sturdy construction. For the modification, I recommend the following steps:

- Height adjustment: Instead of completely replacing the legs, stable furniture risers can be used to ensure secure stability and minimize the risk of wobbling.
- Handles: Replace the standard knobs with larger, ergonomic handles that offer a better grip and reduce the effort required.
- Drawers: Replacing the drawer springs is advisable to decrease the resistance when opening and closing.
- Safety: Permanently securing the furniture to the wall using IKEA’s own safety systems or similar devices prevents tipping.

These measures reduce physical strain and significantly improve the usability of the furniture for individuals with mobility impairments.

gadalu schrieb:
For the renovation, I recommend the following steps:

I would like to add to this that, besides the physical modifications, practical everyday improvements are also important:
– Furniture components that are hard to reach can be fitted with easier-to-use slides or full-extension drawer runners.
– Non-slip rubber mats in drawers improve the handling of items.
– For beds, a higher entry height is advisable, possibly achieved with under-bed support plates or legs, to make getting up easier.
– Avoid additions that create tripping hazards, such as loose cables or hanging fabrics.

I also recommend carefully assessing individual needs and mobility limitations before following any instructions, to carry out the renovation as effectively as possible.

Katau schrieb:
Avoid additions that create hazards, such as loose cables or hanging fabric parts.

This is important. Additionally:
- Use LED lighting for better visibility in drawers and cabinets.
- Fit drawers with lever handles for easier lifting.
- Secure furniture to the wall using brackets.

This is usually sufficient.