A House That Fits: Where Accessibility Opens Every Door

People with disabilities, one of the world’s largest population groups, often face significant challenges in finding housing that is both accessible and affordable (Cho et al., 2016; Louin et al., 2021).

According to the United Nations Flagship Report on Disability and Sustainable Development Goals, housing for people with disabilities is a critical focus area for the coming decade (United Nations, 2018). Yet finding an accessible home can feel impossible—something I learned firsthand.

In 1994, I set out to find a home with clear priorities in mind: a single-story house that was practical, easy to maintain, and close to work. Public transportation was essential, so proximity to a bus line was non-negotiable. Most importantly, I needed a space that would not only meet my current needs but could adapt as my needs changed over time.

As I started looking at houses my optimism about finding a home that met my needs didn’t last long. Every house I toured had its own set of obstacles. One had steep stairs at the entrance. Although I could manage them then, I couldn’t help but worry about how they might pose a problem in the future.

Another had charm, but the doorways were so narrow that using walking poles or a mobility device would have been next to impossible. It drove home a sobering reality: truly accessible homes were nearly nonexistent. Finding one that checked all my boxes started to feel completely out of reach.

That’s when I realized it wasn’t about perfection—it was about potential. A home could be adapted with a few thoughtful tweaks, and that mindset shift changed everything. Accessibility doesn’t end when you sign the lease or close on a purchase; it’s an ongoing process grounded in creativity and practicality.

In fact, research shows that small, evidence-based changes can significantly boost a home’s safety and functionality for people with with disabilities (Campani et al., 2021; Imrie, 2018). These aren’t just theoretical fixes—I’ve put them into practice in my own home to make it truly work for me.

Lessons Learned: Functionality Over Perfection

Entrances and Doorways

The first challenge is often the entrance. I remember touring a house that seemed ideal, except for a single uneven step leading to the front door. At the time, it felt like a dealbreaker. Later, I discovered that portable threshold ramps could solve this issue quickly and affordably without requiring permanent modifications (Atlas Home Safety, n.d.).

Narrow doorways are another common problem but can often be addressed by installing swing-clear hinges, which increase clearance by up to two inches. In homes where that isn’t enough, removing non-essential doors entirely can open up tight spaces further and improve mobility (Imrie, 2018; Ratnayake et al., 2022).

Flooring

Flooring can be a surprising obstacle, especially when transitions between materials create tripping hazards. One home I toured had mismatched flooring that felt risky to navigate. The potential solution was simple: beveled transition strips that provide a smooth bridge between different surfaces, making movement safer and easier (Imrie, 2018).

Loose rugs or carpets are another hazard but can be secured with non-slip pads or double-sided tape to prevent slipping (Campani et al., 2021).

Kitchens

Kitchens often require bending, reaching, and navigating tight spaces, making them one of the most challenging areas to adapt. Several homes I viewed had deep cabinets and high shelves that felt entirely out of reach. However, I discovered a few straightforward solutions:

• Reorganizing cabinets so frequently used items are within easy reach.
• Adding pull-out shelves or lazy susans to improve access to deep cabinets (Ratnayake et al., 2022).
• Incorporating a rolling cart as a potential mobile workstation for meal prep or transporting items between rooms.

These small changes make a big difference in creating a functional space.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms often present the biggest accessibility challenges, but even a few minor adjustments can transform them into safer, more usable spaces. For instance:

• Suction grab bars provide stability near toilets or in showers without requiring permanent installation (Campani et al., 2021).
• Portable shower benches allow for seated bathing, reducing strain and increasing safety.
• Handheld showerheads with extended hoses offer flexibility and make bathing easier (Ratnayake et al., 2022).

These tools create an environment that prioritizes both safety and independence.

Living Areas

Living rooms often contain subtle obstacles that go unnoticed at first glance. One home I toured had a layout that felt cramped, with furniture creating narrow pathways that were difficult to navigate. Rearranging furniture to create clear walkways, ideally at least 36 inches wide, made the space far more accessible.

For additional support, furniture risers can elevate chairs and couches, making it easier to sit or stand without discomfort (Campani et al., 2021; Imrie, 2018).

Bedrooms

Bedrooms can also benefit from simple but effective accessibility upgrades. For instance, clamp-on bedside grab bars offer added stability when getting in and out of bed, reducing the risk of falls (Ratnayake et al., 2022). Similarly, adjustable bed tables provide a versatile surface for reading, eating, or working (Steinfeld & Maisel, 2012).

Lighting and Smart Home Technology

Lighting is an often-overlooked factor in accessibility. I learned how motion-sensor LED lights can illuminate dark hallways or closets, reducing the risk of trips and falls (Campani et al., 2021).

Adding smart home technology, like voice-activated assistants and smart plugs, allows for control over lighting, and other devices with minimal effort. These tools enhance convenience while supporting greater independence.

Embracing Imperfection: Creating a Home That Works

The perfect home never materialized in 1994. Instead, what I found was a house with potential. With a little creativity and care, it gradually transformed into a home that truly worked.

A great home doesn’t have to be perfect—it simply needs to evolve alongside the people who live in it. With the right perspective and some practical adjustments, any space can become a place of safety, comfort, and belonging.

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References

• Atlas Home Safety. (n.d.). Threshold ramps. Retrieved January 10, 2025, from https://www.atlashomesafety.com/ramps/threshold-ramps/
• Campani, D., Caristia, S., Amariglio, A., Piscone, S., Ferrara, L. I., Barisone, M., Bortoluzzi, S., Faggiano, F., & Dal Molin, A.; IPEST Working Group. (2021). Home and environmental hazards modification for fall prevention among the elderly. Public Health Nursing, 38(3), 493–501. https://doi.org/10.1111/phn.12852
• Cho, H., MacLachlan, M., Clarke, M., & Mannan, H. (2016). Accessible home environments for people with functional limitations: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 13(8), 826–848. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph13080826
• Louin, M., Adema, W., Fron, P., & Roth, P. (2021). A crisis on the horizon: Ensuring affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities. Geneva: Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.
• Imrie, R. (2018). Accessible housing: Quality, disability, and design. Routledge.
• Ratnayake, M., Lukas, S., Brathwaite, S., Neave, J., & Henry, H. (2022). Aging in place: Are we prepared? Delaware Journal of Public Health, 8(3), 28–31. https://doi.org/10.32481/djph.2022.08.007
• Steinfeld, E., & Maisel, J. (2012). Universal design: Creating inclusive environments. Wiley.
• United Nations. (2018). Realization of the sustainable development goals by, for and with persons with disabilities: United Nations flagship report on disability and development. United Nations.