Creating the Accessible Home: Adapting a Home for Changing Needs - Softcover

This book is for anyone concerned with making a home convenient and accessible for someone with a physical challenge of any kind. It is written for the homeowner who has begun to recognize the effects of aging. It is also for the reader concerned with the quality of life of aging parents, who would like to give them the emotional and financial dignity of remaining at home rather than moving to an assisted-living situation. And the book will also be of interest to readers wanting to make a home more convenient for young children or grandchildren. In short, it's a book for almost everyone. It includes nearly two dozen complete how-to projects, but also is an indispensable planning guide for readers who are more likely to hire contractors for the work. Creating the Accessible Home is based on the principles of Universal Design-the practice of planning new buildings or updating existing structures so they are conveniently usable by all people-from small children to physically impaired elderly people. These are not homes designed exclusively for handicapped individuals, but for all residents.

The book includes not only the expected construction projects-building an entry ramp for wheelchair access, installing curb less showers and grab bars in bathrooms, the installation of intercom systems and assisted-listening units, installing hands-free controls for switches and electrical fixtures, making computers and other electronics more user-friendly. This book examines all areas of the home. Outdoors: motion-sensor security lights; wheelchair ramps; raised gardening beds; keyless locking systems; barrier-free entrances. Bathroom: anti-scald taps and showers; entry-platform tubs; shower seats; grab bars; pocket doors. Kitchen: low-level work surfaces; accessible appliances; easy-open cabinets and storage accessories. General living areas: handrails, wide, non-slip steps and floor surfaces; easy-operating electrical switches and outlets; hands-free door handles. Each major section of the book includes a product guide listing helpful accessories, building material, and devices to enhance a home's accessibility.