Creating a home that is accessible to everyone is important, especially for those with mobility issues. VisitAble Housing is a great way to ensure that everyone can access and enjoy a home without any difficulty. In this blog, we’ll learn what VisitAble Housing is, what are its main features and how Buildable’s specialized team can help you create a VisitAble home design.
What is VisitAble Housing?
VisitAble Housing is a type of accessible housing designed to accommodate people with special needs and mobility issues. VisitAble Housing is designed to be as accessible as possible, with basic accessibility features such as ramps or no-step entrances, wider doorways and hallways, and main-floor bathrooms. VisitAble Housing also includes features that promote independence and make it easier to access the home.
VisitAble Housing is also known as universal design or universal accessibility. It's been an emerging trend since the 1990s however it's getting more and more important nowadays with the increasing senior population across Canada. This type of housing is designed with the idea of creating a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their health needs or disabilities. It provides basic home access for persons with mobility issues making it easier for them to “visit” their friends or families and become a part of the community.
Benefits of VisitAble Homes
There are many benefits to VisitAble Housing. It can help to improve the quality of life for those with mobility issues, as it makes it easier to access the home. It can also reduce the risk of falls and other injury-related incidents. Fall-related injuries are still the leading cause of injury and accidental death in the 65+ age group and visitable housing offers a safe way to reduce risks for this age group.
Designing services and solutions centered around what older people need is a valuable investment for an aging population. VisitAble Housing can also increase the home’s value, as it is designed to be as accessible as possible. This makes the home more attractive to potential buyers, which can increase the home’s value.
Finally, it will help to create an inclusive community since you will welcome visitors of all ages with peace of mind.
VisitAble Housing Features
There are many home accessibility features that can be included in VisitAble Housing.
There are three basic accessibility features that are also the most common ones for visitable homes: no step entrance, wider doorways and hallways, and main-floor bathrooms.
Other features such as wheelchair ramps, grab bars, lever handles, and slip-resistant flooring can also be included in VisitAble Housing since they are basic features of universal design.
All these features can help to make the home more accessible and easier to use.
Wheelchair Ramps and Other Accessibility Features
Wheelchair ramps are an important feature of VisitAble Housing, as they make it easier to access the home. When designing wheelchair ramps, it is important to consider the size of the ramp, the type of material that the ramp is made of, and the slope of the ramp. It is also important to make sure that the ramp is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair and that there are no obstacles that could make it difficult to navigate.
Other accessibility features that can be included in VisitAble Housing include wider doorways and hallways, adjustable countertops, lever handles, and slip-resistant flooring. All of these features can help to make the home not only VisitAble but more accessible to everyone. Check our blog post 6 Ways to Make Your Home Wheelchair Accessible to learn how we help to improve the quality of life for many homeowners with our solutions.
Accessible Bathroom Layout
When designing an accessible bathroom, it is important to consider the size of the space, the type of furniture and appliances that will be used, and how the space will be used. It is also important to consider the layout of the bathroom, as this will determine how accessible the bathroom will be.
As an important feature of VisitAble homes, it is important to have a main floor bathroom that is easy to access. This means having a bathroom that is close to the main living areas and is easy to access from the outside. It is also important to ensure that the bathroom has enough space for a wheelchair to turn around and move around.
Creating an accessible bathroom design also means including features such as grab bars, lever handles, and slip-resistant flooring. It is also important to include a shower bench and a low sink, as these can help to make the bathroom more comfortable and accessible. These features can help to make the bathroom more accessible and easier to use for everyone.
When designing a bathroom, it is also important to keep in mind the aesthetics of the home. This includes considering the color scheme, materials, and overall design. This can help to create a welcoming environment that is both attractive and accessible. You can check our post 5 Modern Design Trends to Remodel Your Bathroom to discover the latest bathroom design ideas to modernize your home and make it more accessible.
Canadian Accessibility Standards
When creating an accessible home design, it is also important to consider Canadian accessibility standards and the features that can make the home more accessible and easier to use. These standards are designed to ensure that the home is as accessible as possible for those with mobility issues.
The standards include guidelines for the size of doorways and hallways, the size of the ramp, and other features such as grab bars and lever handles. The Canadian accessibility standards also include guidelines for the materials that should be used in the home, as well as guidelines for the design of the home.
Picking the right contractor who knows those accessibility standards and has knowledge of building codes and permits is important for a successful renovation.
Conclusion
Creating an accessible home design is an important step in ensuring that everyone can access and enjoy a home without any difficulty. VisitAble Housing is a great way to ensure that your home is designed to be as accessible as possible, with features such as ramps, wider doorways and hallways, and accessible bathrooms on the main floor.
Buildable is home to many specialized design and renovation teams that can help to create a VisitAble home that is both aesthetically pleasing and accessible for you.
With the right design and renovations, an accessible home can be both attractive and welcoming.
Check out our services to learn how our teams create gorgeous, accessible spaces that meet your unique health needs, budget, and personal style.
BuildABLE™ is Canada's only nurse-managed accessibility contractor. We specialize in accessible home renovations, as well as business renovations for seniors and people with disabilities. Call (613) 402-5613 today!