Handicap Accessible Housing: Homes Built for Everyone
Imagine a home where anyone, no matter their physical abilities, can move around easily and live comfortably. That’s what “handicap accessible housing” is all about. It’s about designing homes and making changes to existing homes so that people with disabilities can live independently and safely.
What is Handicap Accessible Housing?
“Handicap accessible housing” means homes that are built or changed to make them easier to use for people with disabilities. This can include people who use wheelchairs, have trouble walking, or have other physical challenges. The goal is to make homes safe and comfortable for everyone.
Here are some of the things that make a home “handicap accessible”:
- Wide Doorways and Hallways: This makes it easier for wheelchairs and walkers to move around.
- Ramps or Level Entrances: These make it easier to get into the home without steps.
- Grab Bars in Bathrooms:These help people stay steady in the shower or near the toilet.
- Roll-in Showers or Walk-in Tubs: These make bathing safer and easier.
- Adjustable Countertops and Cabinets: These make it easier to use the kitchen.
- Lever-Style Door Handles: These are easier to use than round doorknobs.
- Smooth, Non-Slip Floors: These help prevent falls.
Handicap Accessible Housing and Senior Living
“Handicap accessible housing” is very important for seniors, too. As people get older, they may have more trouble moving around. Making homes accessible can help seniors stay independent and safe in their own homes for longer.
In assisted living and other senior living communities, “handicap accessible housing” is a must. These places need to be designed so that all residents can move around easily and safely.
The Misconception: “Handicap accessible housing” looks like a hospital.
The Interesting Angle: The best “handicap accessible housing” is often “invisible design.” This means that the changes made to the home are so well-integrated that you might not even notice them. It’s not about making a home look like a medical facility; it’s about making it comfortable and convenient for everyone. It is about universal design, and not just specialized accommodations.
Here’s why this is so important:
- Comfort for Everyone: Features like wide doorways and lever handles are helpful for everyone, not just people with disabilities.
- Increased Home Value: Homes with accessible features can be more valuable.
- Future-Proofing: Making homes accessible now can help people stay in their homes as they age.
- Normalizing Accessibility: When accessibility is integrated into everyday design, it helps to break down stigmas and create a more inclusive society.
Things to Consider When Looking for Handicap Accessible Housing:
- Your Specific Needs: Think about what kind of help you need to move around your home.
- The Location: Make sure the home is in a safe and convenient location.
- The Cost: Accessible homes may cost more to build or change.
- The Size: Make sure the home has enough space for you to move around comfortably.
- The Features: Check that the home has all the accessible features you need.
How to Find Handicap Accessible Housing:
- Real Estate Agents: Some real estate agents specialize in accessible homes.
- Home Builders: Some home builders specialize in building accessible homes.
- Government Programs: The government has programs that help people find or make their homes accessible.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Many non-profit organizations help people with disabilities find housing.
- Online Searches: Many websites and listings allow you to filter for accessible housing features.
Additional Information:
- Universal Design: “Handicap accessible housing” is part of a bigger idea called “universal design.” This means designing things so that they can be used by everyone, no matter their age or abilities.
- Building Codes: Many building codes now require new homes to have some accessible features.
Resources for Handicap Accessible Housing:
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):
- Provides information on accessible housing programs and resources.
- Link: https://www.hud.gov/
- Administration for Community Living (ACL):
- Offers information on programs and services for people with disabilities, including housing.
- Link: https://acl.gov/
- The Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA Center):
- Provides research and information on universal design.
- Information can be found by searching “The Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access”
- National Disability Rights Network (NDRN):
- Advocates for the rights of people with disabilities, including housing rights.
- Link: https://www.ndrn.org/
- Your Local Area Agency on Aging (AAA):
- They can provide local resources.
- Use the Eldercare Locator to find your local AAA.
- Link: https://eldercare.acl.gov/