What does "Wheelchair Accessible" really mean?
There are a lot of angles that need to be covered when building a home for the handicapped.Let's start with some definitions.The degree to which a product, service or environment is accessible is called accessible.The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, State and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation.Carolina Services can answer your questions about making a business or home handicap accessible.
Let's begin with the outdoors.It can be difficult for physically handicapped people to access their yard and keep it beautiful.There are many ideas for yards that make them handicap accessible and eye catching.To help maintain and enjoy the yard, some ideas would be to put a wide path throughout it.You could add raised beds for people who have trouble bending over.Hanging baskets make your outdoors very appealing.
There are a lot of things to consider inside to make sure your space is handicap accessible.Keep furniture against the walls to keep paths clear.The doors must be wide and the hallways wide.The door thresholds should not be more than 1/2” higher than the floor.If you have carpet, make sure it is not more than 1/2” thick.It is always a good idea to have handrails on both sides if they are at least 11” wide.
If you want to make your space handicap accessible, you should make outlets at least 15” above the floor.Light switches and thermostats need to be at least 48” from the floor.You can make it your own with a few fun choices in the workspace.One idea is multi-level countertops.For those who are in wheelchairs, there are some shorter ones and some taller ones.
Storage can always be a problem, but it can be more difficult for people with disabilities.One way to take advantage of upper storage space and keep it handicap accessible is to installadjustable rods that can be easily maneuvered at any height.
It can be difficult to make your space accessible because there are so many options to choose from.Carolina Services will help you maximize all of your available space if you contact them.