7 Paving Solutions to Make Properties More Senior- and PWD-Friendly

When we think about accessibility at home, we often focus on the interiors. But what about driveways, walkways, and garden paths? These outdoor spaces matter just as much.

For example, uneven surfaces, steep slopes, and poor lighting can make everyday movement difficult—especially for seniors and people with disabilities (PWDs). A well-designed, mobility-friendly exterior can make all the difference between independence and struggle, as well as safety and danger.

If you’re looking out for ways to preserve the safety and quality of life of your elderly and disabled loved ones, below are some residential paving solutions to explore to make your home safer and easier to navigate. You’ll want trusted asphalt paving contractors like the people at Asphalt Services Ltd. in Dunedin to oversee the job.

1. Make Your Pathways Wider

Ever tried squeezing through a narrow walkway? Wouldn’t it already be frustrating for you as an able-bodied person? Now, imagine doing that in a wheelchair or with a walker. It won’t be easy, to say the least.

One thing you can do to better accommodate senior and disabled loved ones who either live in or frequently visit your home is to make your home’s paths easier to navigate, for example, by widening them to at least 1.2 metres. If space allows, aim for 1.8 metres, which is wide enough for two people to walk side by side. This is especially helpful for those who need a companion’s assistance while on the move.

Also, make it a point to keep your paths clear. Overgrown hedges, bins, or decorative features can all create unexpected obstacles for those with vision or mobility impairments. Trim your hedges, keep your pathways clutter-free, and consider using low-maintenance landscaping to prevent plants from encroaching on walkways over time.

2. Have Gentler Slopes Incorporated into the Property

Steep inclines can be tough for people with limited mobility. Ideally, driveways and paths should have a gradient no steeper than 1:48. Anything sharper increases the risk of falls. It also makes it harder for wheelchair users to move safely.

If your property has a slope, consider having a gentle ramp installed with rest landings along the way. Use slip-resistant materials on sloped surfaces to add extra safety, especially in wet or icy conditions.

But say, for example, you have a steep driveway. In that case, a zigzag pathway with switchbacks will reduce the overall incline and make it easier to navigate. If adjusting the gradient isn’t possible, install sturdy handrails on both sides for support.

3. Smooth and Even Out the Surfaces on Your Property

Cracks, potholes, and uneven paving are more than just an eyesore—they’re also serious tripping hazards. Make sure you fill the cracks and level uneven areas to prevent problems before they start. For the job to be done up to standard, hire a trusted name in residential paving solutions like Asphalt Services Ltd.

Smoother surfaces won’t just be helpful for wheelchair users; parents with prams and even kids learning to walk or ride a bike will be served well with smoother and more even pavement on your property.

4. Go for Non-Slip Materials

To add to the point above, however, a smooth surface shouldn’t be slippery. Ask your contractor to help you choose materials that provide grip and reduce the risk of falls. If your existing surface is too slick, try applying anti-slip coatings. For homeowners considering alterations and an upgrade, asphalt offers a durable, seamless finish for driveways, while concrete works well for edges and small features.

Avoid loose gravel—it shifts underfoot and can get stuck in mobility aids. If you are using block paving, keep gaps minimal to prevent wheels from getting stuck. Also, ask your contractor if it’s a good idea to install rubberised paving, which offers better grip and provides cushioning in case of falls.

Beyond paving materials, be mindful of moss and algae. These can make surfaces dangerously slippery, especially in shady areas. Make an effort to clean your pathways and install drainage channels to divert water away and help keep surfaces dry and safe.

5. Improve Visibility with Clear Markings

Good visibility is crucial for people with vision impairments. A viable solution is to add contrasting markings along pathway edges and steps to help distinguish walking areas. For example, a dark border on a light-coloured path makes navigation easier.

Also, consider tactile paving or textured surfaces that provide physical cues for those with low vision, especially near vehicle crossings or stairs. Reflective markers and embedded lighting will further improve nighttime visibility, while painted lines or textured strips will warn of changes in elevation. Meanwhile, smart lighting with motion sensors can automatically adjust brightness based on movement. This will enhance users’ safety while conserving energy.

6. Install Proper Lighting on Your Pathways

Poor lighting can turn even the safest pathway into a hazard. Conversely, well-placed lights ensure safe movement after dark or when the weather limits visibility.

Place lights at entryways, along paths, and near steps or slopes to eliminate shadows and prevent missteps. Ground-level LED lights along driveways and pathways will offer effective illumination without harsh glare. For an eco-friendly solution, solar-powered lights provide brightness without increasing energy costs. If you want a more stylish approach, warm-toned pathway lanterns will enhance visibility while achieving a cosy ambience in your outdoor space.

7. Manage Drainage to Prevent Slips

Water pooling on driveways and paths isn’t just annoying but dangerous to seniors and PWDs. It can even freeze into slippery ice during winter. A well-designed drainage system will do a lot to help prevent these hazards. Look into paving materials like porous asphalt or permeable concrete, which will allow water to drain through rather than collect on the surface. Drainage channels along walkways and driveways can also direct water away.

In addition, keep drains clear of leaves and debris to ensure they function properly, and install extra grates in areas prone to heavy rain. If your area experiences frequent storms, add a rain garden alongside your paths to help absorb excess water naturally.

Enhance Your Home with Accessible Paving

Ultimately, creating an accessible outdoor space isn’t just about aesthetics but about safety, comfort, and independence as well. You can make your home truly welcoming for everyone with the right paving solutions and with the right contractor for the type of work you need done.

Asphalt Services Ltd. is here to help. We specialise in residential paving solutions that are customised to your specific requirements. Whether you need asphalt driveways, concrete paths, vehicle crossings, or accessibility upgrades done, we’ve got you covered. As an approved Dunedin City Council (DCC) contractor, we are equipped to handle both new builds and modifications—including DCC pre-approvals—to make the process hassle-free. We also take charge of both the work and the paperwork, which means you can focus on enjoying the results.

For a free site assessment, call us at 03 477 2825 or 027 432 7631, email dan@asphaltservices.co.nz, or fill in our contact form. Let’s create a safer, more accessible home for your loved ones of all ages together.