Home Modification

The world isn’t flat or paved, of course, and for the most part no one was thinking about people using wheelchairs or walkers when they designed all our buildings. But things are changing as disability activists -- joined by the largest ever U.S. generation as it heads toward its senior years – have pushed to open up access to all people, including those with spinal cord injury, paralysis or mobility problems.

There are laws now about making schools, transportation, housing, public accommodations and the sidewalks in every city fully accessible. For most people, though, access has more to do with getting in the house, working in the kitchen, using the bathroom.

Home modification could be as simple as a doorknob that’s easy to work, a grab bar in the right place, or a ramp to get in through the back door. It may involve a wider door, a special sink or the installation of an elevator. It gets as complicated as any architect can make it.

The Home Modification links (click on Recommended Web Sites in the upper right of this page) connects to resources to help people assess their needs, weigh their many product options and locate contractors to make their home accessible.