Focus Area: Home

Presentations:

Click the image to view the presentation.

Click the image to view the presentation.

Accessible housing, commonly interpreted to mean accessible to people who use wheeled mobility, has been an increasing focus in the US since the 1960s and is protected as a right in a percentage of all multi-family housing through the federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 for new construction and in many state building codes.  There is a growing realization that designing or renovating homes that will allow all of us to remain in our homes and as independent as possible through out later years makes sense for everyone. And the design of new construction or renovation has to consider mobility but also dexterity, sensory and cognitive issues. Universal design is an international trend that anticipates the broadest spectrum of ability while invested in appearance and protecting valuable equity. In recent years, technology has increasingly been integrated into housing to increase usability and make it possible for people with extremely limited function to live with choice and a sense of control.  New models set the bar and offer the opportunity to replicate but also to build upon strong. precedents . 

Displayed in the images above are examples of a kitchen designed that features products that minimize strain on the user such as low reach appliances and appliances with interfaces that work for individuals with low or no vision. The image on the right is of a bathroom designed for universal access and ease of use. 

Watch Videos Related to Home and Independent Living

Learn how Steve Saling can get real freedom and indepence at the Leonard Florence Center for Living. Steve Saling and Barry Berman, CEO of Chelsea Jewish Foundation will be presenting the story of the Leonard Florence Center on the Home panel.