Handicap accessible Rooms?

Question

Does anyone know what the differences are in handicap accessible rooms? Like, how much shorter the counter-tops are, how the bathroom layout is? ect.?

Answer 1

While I can't give you exact measurements, I can say that in general for a home to be handicap accessible some things that might have be modified would be:

1.  No front or back door steps, instead there would be ramps.  

2.  The bedroom doors would be wider and in the closets the clothes rod would be lowered.

3.  The bathroom door would be wider, instead of a tub there would be a shower without a step or door, and a sink that is just the basin (no cabinet underneath) and a lowered mirror.  A toilet that sits higher (ADA approved) and rails.  

4.  Limited or no carpet throughout.  Tile is a good choice for durability and to clean up after a wheelchair.  Limit rugs and make sure there is ample room around furniture (we could never have a coffee table since the living room was small for example so we did without).

I have a handicapped brother (wheelchair bound) and these are some of the things that my parents did to our home when I was growing up to make it more accessible to him.  Of course, depending on the disability different things may be needed.  Also, depending on how much the person is able to do for themselves, there would be a different need.  Since my brother doesn't cook, it doesn't really matter what height the kitchen cabinets are, but for someone who did I would assume it would.  

I would add, motion sensitive faucets to all sinks if possible and make sure that the cabinets had handles I could easily use---again it depends on what the disability is and when limitations the person has.  For limited strength you would want to make sure things aren't too heavy.  And you could use things like lamps that turn off and on with the touch and a fridge with water on the door.  Try to get appliances that have computerized push buttons instead of dials.

Try looking at for American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines.  Good-luck!!

Answer 2

This website seems to have links for all kinds of info and products related to accessible decor: http://www.makoa.org/accessable-design.h...