When you remodel your home, you may need to consider accessibility to accommodate a disabled or handicapped family member or friend. The information below will highlight the areas in your home that should be adjusted in order to assist the disabled or handicapped individual's movement in your new home.
Doorways, Entrances, and Hallways
All doorways, including closets and bathrooms, should have at least 32 inches of space on all sides. They need to open completely, with or without a door, to allow a person with a wheelchair or other aid to easily go through. Additionally, your home will need at least one pathway and entryway that is a hard surface, at least 36 inches wide, and has no steps. The threshold for the entrance should be no more than ½ inch off the ground. Also, should you have halls in your new home, be sure that they measure 36 inches wide to provide room for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
Bathrooms
A roll-in shower makes bathing much simpler for a person with a disability. A roll-in shower should have a permanently attached, fold down seat for the individual to bathe on. Also, be sure to install flooring that will prevent falls and not be too slippery for the wheelchair's wheels.
Alarms
If there is a person who is deaf or has hearing problems in the home, you should install visual fire alarms. The installation of this system will be more expensive, however, you will be assured that the individual will be able to detect the fire and take proper action in case of this emergency.
Locks and Handles
For those with limited use of the hands and arms, simple levers on door handles, door locks, faucets, heating and cooling controls, and showers are a must. Look for large levers, push buttons, and other handles as well as knobs that don’t require much effort in grasping and turning them.
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