Creating Accessible Light Switches in Your Home

Easily make residential light switches more accessible for people in wheel chairs as well as for shorter individuals such as children.

Adding a light switch extension handle is quick and makes it possible for those who can't reach a standard height light switch to gain independence.

Extension handles can be used on toggle switches or Decora rocker switches as well as with compatible dimmer switches and fan controls.

EXTENSIONS FOR TOGGLE SWITCHES & DIMMERS:

Toggle switch extensions are held in place with screws and allow the switch to easily be toggled up or down to control the lights from a seated or low position.

They don't require any additional holes be drilled in order to be installed. The screws used to attach the handle replace the screws that would otherwise hold the switchplate to the wall.

To use with a toggle dimmer switch, it's best to be sure the dimmer doesn't have a preset lever to the side of switch, as it won't be accessible behind the extension handle.

See how the handle prevents access to the dimmer lever:

Shop toggle dimmer switches here.

HANDLES THAT REACH DECORA ROCKER DEVICES:

An adapter can be added to the above toggle handle to make it compatible with Decora rocker switches and dimmers.

When you use the adhesive rocker adapter, you'll stick the handle to the switch directly rather than using screws to mount to the wall plate.

There are many styles of dimmers that fit rocker wall plates. If you intend to use your handle with a rocker dimmer, be sure it's like examples #3 shown below.

Examples #1 & #2: The small slider knob and switch underneath make it difficult to add an accessibility handle.

Example #3: The rocker style paddle switch on this dimmer is only slightly narrower than a standard Decora rocker switch. You can position the adhesive adapter onto the switch while leaving the side dimming lever unobstructed. You can purchase these compatible dimmer switches here.

Now you can make it convenient for toddlers, small children and disabled residents to access the lights themselves while living in or visiting your home. Add to a main residence, guest house, in-law unit, or vacation rental property.