Organization help for the disabled

Hi, I'm new here, I'm a wheelchair bound woman that lives in an apartment complex. I've adapted to most challenges here, with 1 exception. I am not permitted to make any modifications… my bedroom closet doesn't work for me. I have reorganized multiple times and as my health conditions change, it just gets worse. I've begun putting the majority of my clothes on the bed and sleeping on my sofa. Are there any professional organizers that specialize in disabled design?

Julie

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jazapaz

Oh Julie! You can't just sleeping on the couch!

But I recognize your problem. I have recently been disabled temporarily by a leg injury and I can barely stand or walk. And I hate my tiny closet too.

Maybe someone will offer us both some good advice.

Best wishes to you.

Beth_C

Have you checked whether your state's laws allow you to make accommodations or modifications? California requires that property owners allow "reasonable" modifications. I don't know what you need to do to your closet or whether that qualifies, but it's something you could look into.

TreyfVixen

Hy Julie

that sounds really tough.

Not knowing your physical limitations and abilities, and not knowing what state you live in, it's hard to offer solid ideas or suggestions.

Tenant rights orgs are worth being in touch with. Also, if you get any kind of services from any groups or organizations currntly, they might have ideas of people or groups who can help you out.

How many apts in your building? There are federal laws, and often local and state laws might protect you. But yeah, thats the law and not always easy to navigate. Depending on where you live, and if the building is owner occupied etc there can be things that should be done to help you out.

In the meantime, I might suggest doing an on-line search for your state and disability services.

I hope you get some support soon and sorry to not be more helpful

ehbuchan2048

Depending on your budget, consider getting dressers or shelving for your clothing. Put the dressers in your closet instead of hanging the clothes.

Use a dresser instead of a nightstand. Again, storing clothing instead of putting garments on your bed.

And definitely get in touch with your municipal health department. If nothing else, call your city councillor's office for advice.
We were able to get reduced cost taxi and bus fares though our local health people. (Vancouver Island Health. I am in Canada).
Also call Planned Parenthood. They also do outreach for women's health generally. Again, they may be providing only advice about where to look, or in finding a "champion" to work with, or programs you can get enrolled.

TheWebLion

Hi Julie, Also consider getting a rolling rack for hanging clothes for clothes that are better hung than folded and put into a dresser or on a shelf. Both Amazon and Temu have double row ones so you could use the lower rack from a seated position, and put shoes on the shelf in the middle. And also consider a hooking rod like they use in retail stores to get clothes down from high display ateas so the upper rack might become more usable. Maybe it would even roll into your closet and then back out when needed?