Disability Report: Finding an Accessible Home in Los Angeles

Universal Design 

One of the hottest trends in homes is universal design. Universal design embraces the idea that a home should support people of the broadest possible range of ability, and in doing so, it addresses issues that are normally overlooked in traditional home designs. For example, homes are designed free of barriers, which benefits not only people who use assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers, but also people moving furniture or pushing a baby stroller.  

Whether you opt for new construction or are searching for a home in the resale market, Professional Builder recommends looking for these basic, universal design-oriented elements: 

• Wider hallways than in traditional homes, a minimum of 46 inches wide.
• Wider doorways than in traditional homes, a minimum of 36 inches wide.
• Higher electrical outlets and lower light switches to accommodate seated use.
• Open areas under countertops and at sinks for seated use.
• Lever-style door handles instead of knobs for easier use for those with limited dexterity.
• Grab bars around bathtubs and showers. 

Modifying a Home 

Many people are better off tailoring an existing home to suit their needs. For instance, not all wheelchair users prefer a roll-in shower. Some wheelchair users are more comfortable with a seat in the shower area and bars for transferring. Finding a home to modify may be your best bet. You can use a home accessibility checklist to help with your housing search. You may wish to amend the list to your personal preferences and needs.   

Easy Alterations 

Home Care recommends looking for easy and inexpensive home modifications such as removing obstacles for making a home easier to navigate. This may be as simple as installing lifts and ramps to improve a home’s entryway and installing grab bars and railings throughout the home. Toilets that flush with a touchpad and programmable showers and baths also are a potential boon. Another suggestion is to install motion activated lights throughout the home. There are even bathtubs with sides that rise, allowing the bather to enter easily and then raise the side to soak in a deep, spa-like tub.   

Beyond Basic Structure 

Sometimes, there are other important concerns that will weigh into your decision. If you’re new to the area or still learning your way around, you should research the neighborhoods of Los Angeles to help you become more familiar with the benefits of various locations. Do you want to be close to the beach, or is convenience to your workplace a consideration? Depending on your situation, you may prefer a home with easy access to public transportation options as well.  

Preparing to Move 

While it can be exciting, moving is usually also stressful and exhausting. One of the best ways you can prepare for your move is to lighten your load. US News & World Reportrecommends doing a thorough decluttering as early in the process as possible. You should make an assessment of your old or worn out furniture, ditching furniture that may be exacerbating pain, such as old couches, loveseats and mattresses. For instance, mattresses that haven't been replaced in seven to 10 years may be due for an upgrade anyway, and it’s that much less to move. Before investing in one, check into reliable mattress reviews to ensure you’re making a good choice, otherwise you may be no more comfortable than with your old mattress. When you find that perfect home, it’ll mean you can get a good night’s sleep right from the start. 

Your Accessible Home 

A home should support you and provide comfort. Evaluate your unique circumstances and become educated on what is available. With a handful of good tools at your disposal and awareness of trends and options, house hunting is far easier. Your accessible Los Angeles home can improve your quality of life.

(Patrick Young writes from personal experience. He is disabled, lives in Los Angeles and is a CityWatch contributor.)

-cw