Whether you currently live with a disability or are planning for when you're older, building accessibility into your home can prove vital for aging in place or caring for a family member. The experts at Disaboom--the largest online community for people living with or touched by disability--offer the top 10 things to consider before making accessible home improvements:
Mobility Issues
Be aware of your own needs as a person with a disability and what works best for you. It's a good idea to make a list of issues you encounter regularly and then think of modifications that would resolve each of these issues. This is your house and modifications should be designed to your own specifications, regardless of what the accessible home standards recommend.
Budget
Modifying a home can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. Be realistic about your budget. Financial help is out there. Disability Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans Affairs, church groups and, neighbors are a few good resources that can help shoulder the financial burden. For a cost estimate based on your home's criteria, visit RE/MAX's "Assess Your Access" calculator at Disaboom.com.
Location
While locale is personal preference, a few variables to keep in mind include: walking distance to amenities such as groceries, dining, pharmacies and public transportation stops; the safety of the neighborhood; and your desired level of community support.
It's important to keep all of these guidelines in mind as well, as you design specific areas of your home, such as the ones listed below.
Entrance
The key feature to an entrance is a direct access ramp. The ideal location to install this is in your garage, to protect it from the elements. If the garage is not an option, be aware of water drainage so that the ramp does not become a hazard. Motion sensor lighting can be helpful for illuminating the ramp and landing area. Make sure that you install an ample doorway and that all passageways and hallways are at least 42-inches wide.
Kitchen
When designing an accessible kitchen, make sure that you have enough floor space and are able to maneuver easily. Position the kitchen sink and faucet handles in an accessible location to accommodate users of varying heights. Positioning cabinets and countertops at a lower height will provide an accessible prep area for cooking. When space is limited, pull-down cabinets can also be an accessible solution. If you have grip limitations, look at hardware that incorporates levers or loop handles that can be easily operated with a closed fist.
Bathroom
Simple adjustments such as grip bars and railings can prevent serious injury. Allocate enough space for a wheelchair to pull in and back out and even consider installing a walk in/roll in shower. Bathroom sinks should also accommodate users of varying heights.
Office
Setting up a home office may be the simplest way to get back into a regular work routine. Look at a wheelchair accessible desk, foot activated mouse, adjustable furniture and speaking devices that record and respond to voice commands. Incorporating such products will not only serve to further enhance productivity, but can also enhance comfort as well.
Other Elements
Attention to detail can make all the difference. Raising electrical outlets, lowering switches, and ridding your home of doorway thresholds are some small details that help immensely. Specialized appliances such as front loading washers and dryers can also make life much easier.
Whether you currently have a disability or are planning for the future, having an accessible home is a key component to living forward.
For more information on making your home accessible, visit Disaboom.com.
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