Building for Accessibility

Accessible BathroomWhat is Accessibility?

Accessibility is a general term used to describe the degree to which a product (e.g., device, service, environment) is accessible by as many people as possible. Accessibility can be viewed as the "ability to access" the function, and possible benefit, of some system or entity.

Who needs accessible housing?

Anyone with who is currently handicapped or may be in the future.  And a dictionary defines a handicap as "any disadvantage that makes success more difficult." Even a temporary injury such as a sprained ankle or wrist can make normal activities very difficult and so is considered a handicap.

Many people think of elderly or disabled people when they hear about accessible housing, but the truth is we all experience some kind of handicap sometime in our life.  It may be a small injury or something more permanent.

When thinking about building your house, how long do you plan on living in it?  If you plan on living in it until your "old and gray" then you will want to include accessible features now. Remodeling later may be difficult abd costly.

How much does it cost?

Designing a house that is accessible costs about 5% more than designing a house that is not accessibile. Remodeling your house in the future to add accessible features can cost much more.

What does an accessible house look like?

A house designed with accessibility features looks like every other house, inside and out.  It has all the features of any other home, but a few differences, depending on the features needed. Homes designed for wheelchair use, for example, will have wider doorways.

Will an accessible design affect the resale value of my home?

The resale value of accessible homes is the same as non-accessible homes; the added features do not detract from the homes value.  In fact, there is an increasing demand for accessible homes.

Accesible KitchenWhat features are used to make a home accessible?

The features in a home depend on the needs of the purchaser.  People who are short or use a wheelchair will benefit from lower cabinets, sinks, and a lower stove, with knobs in the front.  A person who is very tall, however, doesn't mind the standard height of the sink, cabinets or stove, but might want doorways and ceiling lighting to be set higher. Someone with limited arm movement might need remote-controlled window blinds. View more information on the National Association of Home Builders website.

How can I make sure that my accessible house is built safely?

When considering building or remodeling with accessible features, you may choose to work with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), a specialist who has completed the training required to obtain a CAPS certificate.  The requirements have been developed by the National Home Builders Remodelors Council, the NAHB Research Center, the 50+ Housing Council, and AARP. Marsella Enterprises can help you find the best source for your needs.

What is "Aging-in-Place"?

Simply, aging-in-place means living in one’s home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age, income or ability level. It means the pleasure of remaining in a familiar environment throughout one’s maturing years, and the ability to enjoy familiar activities and abilities. It means the reassurance of being able to call a house a home for a lifetime.

Find more information on building accessible features into your new home,
call or email Marsella Enterprises.

 



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