Crafting A Home For Everyone
When I found out my new home came with optional ADA upgrades, it seemed like a no-brainer to make it wheelchair-accessible. I was modestly thinking: ramps, wider doors, and an accessible full bathroom. But, ever since I put in the request, I’ve been collecting heaps of responses that suggest my decision was not quite common sense.
I decided to write this article because I want to put these responses out in the open and into public dialogue. After all, ABC Home is dedicated to creating living spaces that work for everyone. Please help me complete the conversation in the comments section with your own reactions. Let’s go!
Challenging Misconceptions
One response I got was: “Aren’t these features intended for buyers who use wheelchairs?” This was from a well-meaning sales office staffer. However, Aberdeen’s policy is actually motivated by “visitability” – the idea that people with disabilities should be able to visit others’ homes.
My response? People with disabilities should be able to visit other people’s homes. For two years, I had a wheelchair-using TA, and I fully expect that I will eventually have wheelchair-using graduate students and collaborators. I would like to be able to host such people in my home. Similarly, if my young daughter befriends a wheelchair-using child, shouldn’t she be able to invite that child to her birthday party, or even just to come over and play? And, what about you? No one is born in a wheelchair; if you don’t use one already, you are likely to adopt one later in life. What’s more, if you’ve ever used a dolley or a stroller or carried furniture between rooms (or through a window), you know that ramps and wide door frames are your friends.
Another concern I heard was: “Won’t this lower the property value? What if people think ramps are eyesores?” This question was put to me by a friend who invests in real estate, and who was expressing genuine concern. My response? Society should value wheelchair users’ experience enough to appreciate that architectural beauty can include ramps. Ramps are no more eyesores than are any other architectural feature. There can be ugly windows and horrible rooflines, but no one doubts that windows and roofs should be part of a building.
Overcoming Institutional Barriers
I also heard: “Frankly, we do not know how to build an ADA-compliant ramp or how much it will cost. Can you tell us?” Both the sales office and the builders (who were contracted to develop dozens of homes) had apparently never dealt with ADA requests before. I do not know how to solve this problem, but let’s all agree that people with disabilities and their allies should not have to study building codes or write blank checks in order to buy a functional home.
And then there were the versions of “Why are you doing this? Why do you care?” It was a little disturbing to see how many people asked me this. As has been said more than once, “I don’t know how to explain to you that you should care about other people.” And, ultimately, people with the means should be leaders, not followers, in creating social equality. Right?
Rethinking Home Design
When designing or modifying a home for accessibility, there are several key features to keep in mind. First and foremost, doorways and hallways need to be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. The ADA recommends a minimum doorway width of 32 inches, with 36 inches being the ideal. Wider hallways, at least 48 inches, also provide more space for maneuvering around the house.
Beyond door and hallway width, it’s important to consider the placement of furniture. Furniture should be arranged in a way that allows for easy movement throughout the house, with no obstacles or barriers that could impede mobility. In each room, it’s crucial to keep the needs of wheelchair users in mind. For example, in the bathroom, grab bars, lowered sinks, and roll-in showers are essential. In the kitchen, lowered countertops and accessible appliances make a world of difference.
Creating an open floor plan can also greatly improve navigation throughout the home. Removing unnecessary walls or furniture can provide more space for turning and maneuvering. And don’t forget about the outdoor space – ramps, handrails, and level pathways are key to making the entire home accessible.
Accommodating Unique Needs
Accommodations are modifications or adjustments that make it possible for individuals with disabilities to live independently and comfortably. When it comes to wheelchair-friendly homes, there are a variety of accommodations to consider. These include:
| Accommodation | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wider Doorways (min. 32 inches) | Allows for easy passage of wheelchairs |
| Lowered Light Switches (36 inches) | Accessible to wheelchair users |
| Grab Bars in Bathrooms | Provides stability and support |
| Wheelchair-Height Countertops (28-34 inches) | Enables comfortable reach and use |
| Roll-In Showers | Eliminates need to step over tub |
| Automatic Door Openers | Removes the need to manually open doors |
By making these accommodations, individuals with disabilities can live independently and comfortably in their own homes. And as Stacy Branham pointed out, ramps and wide door frames are useful for everyone, not just wheelchair users.
Embracing the Outdoors
Making your home’s outdoor space more accessible is an important step towards ensuring that everyone can enjoy the great outdoors. One of the most common updates is adding a ramp to your front entrance. This allows individuals who use wheelchairs or walkers to easily access their homes without having to navigate stairs. It’s important to ensure that the ramp is ADA-compliant, with a slope no steeper than 1:12 and a minimum width of 36 inches.
Handrails are another feature that can greatly improve accessibility for those with mobility issues. Installing handrails on both sides of any steps leading up to your home or around your outdoor space can provide added support and stability. Wider doorways, with a minimum of 32 inches, are also essential for accommodating wheelchairs and walkers.
Beyond ramps, handrails, and wider doorways, there are other updates you can make to your outdoor space to make it more accessible. Consider adding outdoor seating areas with benches or chairs that are easy to get in and out of. Ensure that pathways and walkways are clear and level to allow for easy navigation with mobility devices. Installing motion-activated lighting can also be helpful for individuals with visual impairments or mobility limitations.
Accessibility Checklist
When designing or modifying a home for accessibility, it’s important to have a comprehensive checklist to ensure that all the necessary features are in place. Here’s a basic home accessibility checklist:
- Doorways: Minimum 32 inches wide, with lever-style handles
- Hallways: Minimum 48 inches wide
- Floors: Smooth, slip-resistant surfaces (e.g., laminate, vinyl, low-pile carpet)
- Bathrooms: Grab bars, lowered sinks, roll-in showers
- Kitchen: Lowered countertops (28-34 inches), accessible appliances
- Lighting: Rocker switches placed at 36 inches, anti-glare lighting
- Outdoor Access: Ramps, handrails, level pathways, wide doorways
- Furniture: Sturdy, stable, with rounded edges
By following this checklist and working with professionals who have experience in designing accessible spaces, individuals with disabilities can create a home that meets their unique needs and allows for independent living.
Finding Community Support
In addition to modifications and adaptations that can be made to a home, community support is also an essential aspect of ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Resources such as accessible public spaces, transportation services, and social events that cater specifically to their needs can provide opportunities for socialization, employment, and education.
One valuable resource is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator. An ADA coordinator is a professional who provides guidance and support to housing providers, businesses, and organizations to ensure they comply with ADA guidelines. They can help identify potential accessibility issues and recommend reasonable accommodations.
Many cities and counties have their own ADA coordinators who can guide residents. For example, in Arlington County, Virginia, the Department of Human Services offers an ADA coordinator who can provide assistance and support to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Additionally, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be a great source of information and support for individuals with disabilities. Many users share their experiences and ideas for creating more accessible living spaces, and connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable insight and support.
Translation services can also be a valuable resource for individuals with limited English proficiency. Many organizations offer translation services to ensure that everyone has access to the same information and resources.
Conclusion: Designing for Accessibility, Designing for Life
Creating an accessible home is not only important for individuals with disabilities but also for older adults and those with limited mobility. By incorporating accessible design elements and modifications, individuals can live independently and comfortably in their own homes.
From wider doorways and wheelchair-friendly toilets to grab bars and open floor plans, there are many features to consider when designing or modifying a home for accessibility. It’s also important to take advantage of community support and resources, such as ADA coordinators, social media platforms, and translation services.
At ABC Home, we specialize in creating accessible and functional living spaces that meet the unique needs of our clients. Our team of experts can work with you to design and modify your home to be accessible and comfortable for everyone. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you create a home that promotes independent living.
