Easy-Access Housing For Adaptable Living WY (NAPSA)—Encouraging to the more than 54 million Americans with ot disabilities is a simple checklist that has been created as a guide for what l a to look for in an accessible home. The guide, developed by Easter Seals and Century 21 Real Estate LLC, also helps point to what features are necessary for homes to be adapted to accommodate personswith various typesof disabilities. First, a home is considered adaptable if it has most of the fol- lowing key structural features: A location on a relatively flat or level site with paved walkways and sidewalk areasto a level entry. e A ground-level entrance or a one- or two-step entrance clear of any major obstructions. No steps or abrupt level changes on the main floor. Wider-than-standard door- ways (32-inch or more clear width). eo | ; eee Y st | An adaptable house hascertain features that make it possible to modify it to accommodate people with a wide range of physical disabilities. For example, accessibility to wall cabinets that are too high can be increased by adding some new cabinets or adding a free standing storage cabinet. If doorknobs are Wide hallways; at least 42 inches, preferably 48 to 60 inches. e At least one large bathroom with a 32-inch door opening and a clear five-foot by five-foot space. problematic, round knob fixtures Fortunately, there are many adaptations that are possible to increase the accessibility and comfort of a home occupied by a per- be added on to standard toilets to e A kitchen large enough for easy wheelchair mobility. son with a disability or with func- tional limitations due to aging. can be replaced with lever or handle-style hardware. In the bathroom, if standard-height toilets are a problem, remember that most hospital and medical supply companiescarry products that can raise the seat height. For more pointers on easyaccess housing for easier living, visit www.EasterSeals.com/ easyaccess.
