Checklist: Design for Accessibility

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

More articles on Accessibility and Accessible Home Design

Designing the interior of a home is critical for accessibility, especially the kitchen and bath areas. Wheelchair accessibility issues should be emphasized within these areas.

Kitchen

When designing or redesigning a kitchen, make sure the aisles are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Sink depth can be an important consideration if the user is in a wheelchair. Some manufacturers provide sinks that are not as deep as standard models.
Faucets with extended handles and spouts are readily available in many styles and colors. Faucets should be within easy reach and easily operable with one hand. For individuals with limited use of their hands or who have limited strength, faucets equipped with electronic sensors are designed to automatically turn water on and off.
Cooktops and stoves can be installed at a height that is good for either standing or sitting.
If a person is partially blind, selecting a cooktop that has contrasting colors, such as light surface and dark burners, will help distinguish between hot areas.
Sliding cabinet doors work better for people seated in a wheelchair.
If you are remodeling consider adjusting some of the work surfaces to a 30-inch height rather than the standard 36-inch height. This will aid a person who is seated or a child who may want to help out in the kitchen. It is also good for those who suffer with back problems or have limited reach.
Countertops with rounded edges can reduce injury if someone should happen to fall or bump into them.
Wallcoverings can be used to distinguish between areas. Bright colors are helpful for people who have limited vision or limited depth perception to distinguish between walls, cabinets, doorways, etc.
Motion sensors and timers can be used to turn lights off and on. This is especially helpful for those who have difficulties with reaching.

Bathroom

Make sure the switches are at a height that is easy to reach for someone seated in a wheelchair. Small children also benefit from this accessibility design consideration.
Tubs and showers should be equipped with grab bars, hand held showerheads, non-slip flooring and seats.
When installing grab bars in a private residence, when possible, ask the person who will be using them to determine the location for installation.
Lower the water heater thermostat to prevent accidental scalding. This is also a good idea if you have small children in the household.

Exterior Accessibility Tips

Consider the home's exterior when designing for accessibility and adaptability.
Putting a shelf or shelves next to an entry door to set packages on is handy and inexpensive to make.
Guardrails should be installed on both sides of wheelchair ramps.
For full accessibility, driveways and walkways need to be wide enough that car doors and sliding doors on passenger vans can be fully opened with enough space left for a wheelchair to maneuver around easily.
Surfaces should have non-skid finishes to prevent slipping.
Porches should have a wide radius to allow a wheelchair user to maneuver comfortably .

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic