Accessibility

Back

Stair lifts can be a very good alternative to providing access in multi-level homes. Residential elevators are also an excellent option; however, several factors, including costs, may determine the practicality of each option.

Universal Design Tips

Dining Area:

  • The dining table should have an under-table clearance of at least 30" to allow manual wheelchair users access
  • Allow at least one side of the dining table to be accessible to wheelchair users. Also be sure to provide adequate maneuvering space for persons using walkers or wheelchairs
  • The dining table should be as close to the food preparation as possible. This decreases the distance of carrying hot and/or heavy food items. If this is not possible, use of a rolling cart or an intermediate storage area can be helpful.

Back to Top

Laundry:

  • Use washer and dryers that are front loaded and have controls located on the front; this provides ease of operation and access to laundered items.
  • Raise washer and dryers 18" to minimize excess bending when retrieving laundry; this is particularly helpful for persons with balance impairments as well as wheelchair users.
  • If space permits, install a sink basin to pre-soak laundry items which can easily be transferred to the washer or dryer.
  • A table in the laundry area can be used to prevent excessive bending. Use the table to sort laundry before washing and to fold clean laundry.

Back to Top

Doors & Doorways

  • Widen doorways to a minimum of 36" and allow 18-24" of clear space available on the door handle side to maximize ease of entry and exit for wheelchair users, furniture movers, families with wide strollers, and other unforeseeable situations that may present themselves.
  • Door handles should be used in place of round door knobs. A good rule of thumb is that a door should be operable with a closed fist. An adult with arthritic hands must be able to operate a door lever and door lock with a minimal amount of force.
  • Consider using a keyless locking system for door locks to free up a person's hands.
  • Swing-away door hinges should be used to maximize the widths of existing doorways. That extra inch and half can make a world of difference.

Back to Top

Thresholds & Ramps:

  • Utilize zero-threshold heights whenever possible. If this is not feasible, utilize threshold ramps or wedges.
  • When outdoor ramps are needed to enter a home, it is recommended that for every inch of height needed a foot of length is needed (e.g. a two inch height will need two feet of length to be sufficient).

Back to Top

Hallways:

  • Should be a minimum of 36" wide for comfortable use by manual wheelchair users and wider for power-wheelchair users.

Back to Top

Throw Rugs:

  • Throw rugs should be avoided due to their potential for causing falls and injury.

Back to Top