Your home should provide you with a safe, comfortable environment where you can easily go about your day. For the differently-abled or people with chronic conditions, home accessibility can be a daily struggle. Home accessibility is a growing concern among many Americans according to recent home trends.
An American Institute of Architects survey revealed two-thirds of architects have reported that greater home accessibility is a popular trend among their clients. More and more homeowners and homebuilders are looking for universal design that allows for easy home use by people of all abilities.
Universal design homes include a variety of features, including:
- Wide, wheelchair accessible doorways and hallways
- Zero-entry or ramp access to the home
- Single floor layout
- Rounded corners
- Accessible storage like cabinets that are not too high or too low
- Door handles instead of knobs
- Better lighting throughout the house
- Zero-entry showers
- Grab bars around the toilet and shower
Universal design techniques are also being used to renovate existing homes, helping improve accessibility and independence for homeowners. Renovations to install ramps, grab bars or other devices allow homeowners to stay true to their home’s current design while making vital changes to rooms like the kitchen and bathroom.
New technology is playing a role in accessible homes and universal design. Smartphone and smart home systems help you easily manage tasks like turning on lights both inside and outside, locking doors and controlling home temperature. These systems can even help you monitor your front door or vacuum the floor. These systems can also improve safety through voice commands, helping you contact emergency services or family members even if you cannot reach your phone.
Accessibility solutions continue to become more and more affordable. Whether it is low-cost smartphone applications or the ability to rent accessibility solutions, you have more options than ever for creating a home that supports safety and independence.
For more information on creating a more accessible home, contact Hampton Roads Mobility at (757) 663-5457.
