The world of people with special physical needs is "simply complex". Some physical limitations are fairly basic and require simple adaptations; others are relatively simple at onset but may become complex and more demanding with time. Designing a new home or modifying an existing residence for special needs people requires careful consideration of their current and ongoing physical needs.
Fortunately, a new type of housing design (referred to as universal design) is evolving to address the issues of providing customized accommodations so that special needs people of all ages can live in the comfort and safety of their homes.
Who is in need of universal design?
Specially adapted housing is not exclusively for an aging population. Accidents, illness, or the early onset of a physically degenerative disease can affect an individual at any age.
Many people who are purchasing a new house at a mid-life point are considering the possibility of staying in that house for much of their remaining lives. They are assessing how the house is designed or adaptable to meet possible future mobility/access challenges. And more households are becoming multigenerational, with the same kinds of structural adaptation needs.
The first steps of planning a universal design home
The first (and most important) step is to assess the current and ongoing needs of the resident with special physical needs:
A doctor, physical or occupational therapist, health care case worker or even a builder may provide valuable insight into safety design. A child's teacher may also be an excellent resource as to the child's needs and how the home can be designed or modified to be more accommodating. Consideration also should be given to the care giver and what will be needed in order for that person to safely assist the special needs member.
Elements of universal design
The principle of universal design is, "an approach that makes home accessible to everyone, regardless of age or health quality." These are some of the modifications to building design that universal design specialists recommend:
Level access to the house, ideally stepless entrances; some design specialists recommend against the use of ramps unless absolutely necessary. If unavoidable, the ramps should be carefully graded for minimal rise. Each point of entry should be considered and modified. Front entry should have windows positioned so that a person in a wheelchair can see out without opening the door. Flush thresholds. Standard (but wider) doors. Standard electrical receptacles placed higher above floor level for easier access. Lighted entryway; motion-detector controlled lights. A turning space of at least five feet in diameter in all rooms. Hallways with a 48" minimum width for maneuverability. Audible and visual smoke detectors. ขายบ้าน Roll-in curbless shower; tub with integrated seat. A waterproof bathroom floor; floor drain. Grab bars in the toilet, tub, and shower areas. Single-lever faucet fixtures. Tub and shower anti-scald valves. Kitchens with countertops and cooking surfaces safely accessible by a seated person. Bedrooms with room to accommodate safe placement of a wheelchair or walker. Intercom installed near the bed. Paddle or lever style handles for door knobs and u-shaped pull knobs for drawers.
This is a far-from-inclusive of design recommendations. However, if you want to build or remodel a home to accommodate a special needs person, the list can serve as a starting point for your planning purposes. Many adaptations are fairly simple to implement; others will require special design modifications. A designer or builder knowledgeable in universal design can help you select the elements that will be essential to the safety and comfort of all your home's residents.
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