Rosemarie Rossetti, whose book we mentioned in this post held a TEDx talk about universal design in everyday life. According to Rossetti, 90% of homes are not accessible for people with disabilities.

See her Tedx talk here.

We can all implement small changes around the house to make our spaces more inviting, inclusive, and accessible to people of all abilities. We’ve gathered some ideas of ways you can introduce universal design principles into your own home now. Join us in creating a more welcoming world. 

 
High-Traffic Spaces

Common spaces used by residents and visitors alike are good places to start when it comes to making updates to your home. Here are simple adjustments that can make accessing these spaces safer and easier.

• Install automatic light sensors

Light switches can be challenging for some to operate. Automatic sensors turn lights on when someone enters the room and shuts them off if the room is empty. Bonus: This conserves energy and is good for the planet.

• Remove curbs or transitions between room

Having curbless entry in each room helps lessen the possibility of tripping on a threshold when moving from room to room

• Declutter pathways

Consider the paths people walk in your most-used rooms. Are there obstructions, like furniture or clutter on the floor? Clear the way to make sure movement throughout is easy and unobstructed.

Kitchen

While the kitchen is the most hazardous room in the home, there are small steps you can take to reduce your risk.

• Remove the kitchen mat

Rugs and mats near the sink can cause trips and falls. Removing them and selecting flooring that provides traction-but doesn't create an uneven surface–will help make this room safer. Certain tiles and cork work well for this, as well.

• Store thoughtfully

Store frequently used items in easy-to-reach places, like waist-height cabinets or on countertops. For deep shelves, consider inserts that can assist in pulling items out more easily.

• Add lighting

Install task lighting above high-use spots, like the oven or certain countertops. Additional lighting in cabinets, drawers, and other storage areas is also helpful.

• Change out your hardware

Handles or levers on drawers and cabinets are more accessible than knobs, tabs, and C- and J-Channel cabinet pulls.

• Enhance the sink

Single-lever faucets or touch faucets can help remove barriers to using the sink.

Shower

The bathroom is the second most dangerous room in the home. More than half of injuries sustained in the bathroom occur in the shower or tub. Start with making some minor changes to your shower.

• Add a bench

This can help reduce fall risk, especially if standing for long periods is a challenge.

• Install an adjustable showerhead

Even better, some shower heads now feature an easy-to-use on/off button.

• Upgrade your faucet

If your faucet has a knob or two separate handles for hot and cold water, it can be helpful to install a faucet with a single handle.

• Invest in a floor mat or non-slip flooring

Do what you can to reduce the chance of slipping while in the shower with a non-slip shower mat or specialty flooring.

Photo by Marcus Aurelius