How to Design Homes for the Disabled
Learning how to design homes for the disabled is not an easy task. Many things need to be taken into consideration for safety's sake as well as the comfort level of the dweller. In order for someone with physical disabilities to remain in his own house, instead of becoming a resident in a care facility, great pains must be taken in order to ensure that all of his special physical needs are met. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wheelchair ramps
- Wider doors
- Level landscaping materials
- Solid flooring
- Grab bars
- Custom cabinets, counter tops and electrical switches
Instructions
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Outside Spaces
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1
Include wheelchair ramps leading up to every door in your house in your design plan. This includes the front door, back door, deck or patio as well as the garage entryway.
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2
Plan for wider doors to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Some standard doors will not let a wheelchair user fit comfortably through them.
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3
Create a garage that is wide enough to fit a vehicle with a wheelchair lift attached to it. Allow enough space for the individual to exit his vehicle as well as move around to get to the door.
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4
Choose landscaping with level walkways when designing a home for the disabled. Uneven stone pavers will not work well with wheelchairs or walkers, as well as being trip hazards.
Inside Spaces
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5
Plan on having wider doors as well as hallways for ease of wheelchair use and turning. The article "Handicap Wheelchair Accessible Remodeling" states that at least a 32-inch door is needed, and up to a 36-inch door is necessary if the wheelchair needs to be turned to access it.
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Design your plans for a home for the disabled with solid flooring materials. It's hard to maneuver anything with wheels over carpet.
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7
Install grab bars in the bathroom by the toilet and in the bathtub or shower. Safety mats must be provided for those that can stand. According to "Handicap Wheelchair Accessible Remodeling," "Many people find it difficult to use a tub" so a shower may be easier for the individual concerned.
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Plan on having custom lower cabinets, sinks and counter tops in the bathroom and kitchen built for wheelchair height if necessary. Electric switches such as for the garbage disposal and exhaust should be installed in the front of the kitchen counters.
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9
Create a bedroom that can accommodate a hospital bed and other health electronics as needed. This may mean more outlets in specific areas that are within easy reach of the individual.
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10
Design storage in the home that it is also safe for the disabled. Walk-in closets must be widened to accommodate wheelchairs if necessary, as well as including shelves and hanging space at the right height for easy reach from a wheechair.
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