Entryways, Stairs, Ramps and Vertical Lifts
Stairs are one of the most common places where people slip and fall. A broken hip can take months of recovery time and put you at risk for additional falls. Prevent this “slippery slope” and see how many checks you have!
Fall prevention safety checklist – Entry steps
_____ Covered entry
_____ Non-slip surface
_____ Clutter-free
_____ Hand rails on both sides
_____ Motion-activated lighting
_____ Drop zone for packages
_____ 5’ x 5’ space at top of any steps
It can be difficult to imagine that health conditions like arthritis, heart disease or diabetes (which are typically age related) could result in decreased mobility but with careful planning, you can invest in your home to be more accessible and safe for the future.
Entryways and Stairs: One of the first barriers often are entry stairs. Whenever possible it is best to eliminate them all together with a goal of creating a zero grade entrance to the home. Sometimes the best entry may be from the garage.
- If steps cannot be eliminated the following features should be considered:
- Closed risers that have contrast for better visibility
- Wide treads to accommodate any mobility aids
- Non-slip surface
- Bright lighting without glare, motion activated if possible
- Continuous handrails on both sides, color contrasted with the wall for greater visibility.
- Maneuvering space to open the door with consideration of door type and swing
- Entry shelf drop area for packages while unlocking and opening of door
- Lever style door hardware
- Visitor identification system
- Covered entry and steps
- Low door threshold
- Removal of all clutter that interfere with using the handrails
Ramps: Ramps are often part of an accessible route especially where sloping walkways or decks are not practical. When difficult to integrate a ramp into the existing home design they can sometimes be located at a secondary entrance. Sometimes ramps can be incorporated into the overall design using landscaping but this depends on the grade. These are constructed using concrete, aluminum, pressure treated or ‘engineered’ wood.
One of the most common mistakes is building a ramp with too steep an incline. The ratio of the rise of the length of the ramp should be a minimum of 1:12 and a minimum of 3’ wide. In other words, for every 1” of rise, there should be 12” of ramp. Slopes of 1:20 are considered to be walking ramps and do not require a handrail but depending on the length of the ramp, a landing may be required. Don’t forget about the ramp landing threshold and transition zone from the ramp surface to the ground. It is best to hire a professional when trying to figure out the best solution to be sure and this will ultimately save time, money and be safe, which is the primary goal.
There are many portable and temporary modular ramps plus portable threshold ramps available commercially too. Again consider the slope, surface material and long-term use when purchasing this type of ramp.
Lifts and Elevators: Residential lifts and/or elevators can be added to the exterior or interior of your home but it is important to work with a professional so that there is compliance to the local building codes/regulations.
Vertical lifts are similar in function to an elevator. They are used to get from one level to another and can be used instead of a lengthy ramp. Typically they are professionally and permanently installed and feature safety gates.
Platform lifts are an option for indoor use and allow the user to drive his/her wheelchair onto a platform which then moves them up and down the stairway. When not in use the lift can be folded against a wall.
Chair lifts are useful for people who have difficulty managing the stairs but will need to have the ability to transfer into the chair. The lift consists of rail attached to the steps or wall and a seat that glides up and down along the rail.
Elevators are available in residential versions and are becoming more and more popular with many types to choose from. If you are considering one in a remodel it is best to consult with your contractor to decide which model could work in your specific situation and what is the most cost effective. New construction should always include a design provision for installing an elevator during construction or for the future.
In the next issue of Paradise News we will offer accessible solutions and safety ideas for the kitchen.
For more information, contact Mary Carol Peterson by email: marycarol@accessibledesign.solutions or call her at 727-709-2258 for a home consultation or visit her website: www.accessibledesign.solutions.
Article by Mary Carol Peterson, Occupational Therapist and Certified Aging in Place Specialist