Whether you currently live with a disability or are planning for when you or someone close to you may, building access control system into your home can prove vital for aging in place, caring for a family member or increasing the visit ability of your home. Listed below are the top issues one should consider before undertaking any improvements.
Financial help is out there. Disability Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans Affairs, church groups, neighbors and even television shows such as “Extreme Home Makeover” are a few good resources that can help shoulder the financial burden. To better understand the costs associated with making your home accessible, visit RE/MAX’s “Assess Your Access” calculator on disaboom.com, which provides estimation based on your house’s criteria.
It’s important to keep all of these guidelines in mind as well, as you design specific areas of your home, such as the ones listed below.
Office
Setting up a home office may be the simplest way to get back into a regular work routine. Some options to consider when designing your accessible office include: wheelchair accessible desk, foot activated mouse, adjustable furniture and speaking devices that record and respond to voice commands. Incorporating such products will not only serve to further enhance productivity, but can also enhance comfort as well.
Accessing Multiple Floors
Home owners with a new disability in a multi-level home looking to access their second floor have a few options; residential elevators, vertical wheelchair lifts, or a stair lift. Wheelchair lifts and stair lifts are less costly, do not require a machine room, and are more space efficient. Wheelchair users should note that if they decide to install a stair lift, two separate wheelchairs are required unless they wish to carry their wheelchair with them.
Other Elements
Attention to detail can make all the difference. Raising electrical outlets, lowering switches, and ridding your home of doorway thresholds (as they present a trip hazard) are some small details that help immensely. Specialized appliances such as front loading washers and dryers and the self running Roomba Vacuum can also make life that much easier.
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