Ikea launches ThisAbles add-on product range to help make day-to-day tasks easier for disabled people
Furniture giant Ikea has launched its ThisAbles range of add-on products that aims to transform the lives of people with disabilities by making daily tasks simpler, with new innovations like bumpers for bookshelves, extra-large zippers and corner markers for shelves.
The ThisAbles initiative was led by Ikea’s Israel office alongside organisations Milbat and Access Israel, which specialise in creative solutions for disabled people.
People can print the products themselves by downloading free plans on the ThisAbles website and taking them to any 3D-printing facility.
Once printed, people can find step-by-step assembly instructions for the products on the ThisAbles website.
The add-on range features: bumpers for wheelchair users; a large, round handle which can be fitted to any product that has a small handle, making it easier to grip; and corner markers that can be attached to Ikea shelves to clearly indicate the boundaries of where a shelf starts and ends.
In addition, the ThisAbles website has some videos available showcasing its new range with disabled people assembling and using the products.
Ikea is encouraging people to share any accessibility problems people are experiencing with current Ikea furniture as well as offer potential solutions.
