A House that Works for Everyone

Author

Accessible Systems

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Accessible Systems

Posted on

May 16, 2023

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro

People expect “home” to provide independence, accessibility, safety and peace of mind – regardless of disabilities, limitations or health challenges. Many are choosing to stay in their homes for as long as possible to avoid moving to senior-care communities.

This movement isn’t restricted to people who are aging. It applies, as well, to patients with sudden health changes – due to accidents, stroke, spinal cord injury – as well as to those with degenerative conditions such as arthritis, amyotrophic laterals sclerosis (ALS), dementia, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s Disease.

If you share the desire to remain at home, will the house where you are living sustain your independence for years to come? As your mobility diminishes, what home modifications and changes would be essential to ensure accessibility and safety?

 

Great design should be part of every home, and two schools of thought have emerged. Universal Design dramatically improves the use by everyone, children, people with disabilities, the aging population, and everyone in between. However, Accessible Design is amazingly personal, and can create a personal environment specific for your needs. Which one is better and how are universal design and accessible design different?

Differences Between Universal Design and Accessible Design

In your home, it comes down to the degree of personalization. By nature, Universal Design is improving home for use by everyone vs. your individual use. You may choose to use some of both to make your home special.Many of these concepts will help your home be easier to use. But Accessible Design goes farther, and can really future proof your home. These can also be called accessible home modifications.

Examples of Universal Design in Your Home

      Open Concept Floor Plan – avoid sharp boundaries between rooms without doorways

      Multi Height Countertops

      No Step Entry to the home or rooms in the home

Examples of Accessible Design in Your Home

      36 inch doorways for all entrances and doorways in the home

      Barrier Free Showers with no step or door to enter

      Stacked closets (4 foot x 5 foot or larger) on each level for future elevator use

      Handholds or Grab Bars at convenient heights

Both Universal Design and Accessible Design are thinking about the user and making the home convenient and upgraded. Accessible Design is truly planning ahead to avoid having to move when your needs change.

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Amy Reid with Accessible Systems, A Lifeway Mobility Company.

She may be reached at 303-693-7787, or by email at amy@accessiblemed.com

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