1. First Floor:
 |
| Off set hinges widen clearance space for doorways. |
- Minimum 32″ wide doorways (swing clear hinges can be installed on existing doors to widen opening.
- 42″ wide hallways.
2. Handrails:
On both sides of all stairways.
- Interior stairways (banister should be installed in studs 1 1/2″ from wall.)
- Exterior stairways.
3. Shower Access: The first floor bath needs an easy to use shower.
- Hand-held shower.
- Portable bath tub seat.
- Bath transfer bench.
- Scald control faucet.
4. Grab bars not towel bars:
- Attractive grab bars that look like towel racks can be installed near toilet, shower and tub.
- Walls by toilets and showers reinforced during construction or remodeling for installation of grab bars later if needed.
5. Accessible storage:
- Multiple height and/or adjustable height shelves should be used in closets and kitchen cabinets.
6. Easy grip controls:
Examples:
- Levers handles (doors and faucets.)
- D-shaped pulls.
- Rocker panel lights switches.
- Touch pad controls.
- Larger-sized controls.
7. Lighting: User friendly lighting.
- Outlets/switches located 18″-48″ above the floor.
- Dimmer switches.
- Lighting for exterior walkways, porches, halls, stairs and all transition areas.
8. Accessible work surfaces/appliances:
- Front loading washer/dryer.
- Accessible refrigerator.
- Electric range/front controls.
- Large print/color contrasting controls.
9. Safe flooring:
- Low or no thresholds (beveled strips for heights of 1/4″ or more.)
- Slip resistant/non-glare flooring.
- Low pile carpet.
10. Safety devices.
- Smoke detectors.
- Night lights.
- Temperature limiting mixer valves (anti-scald device.)
- Carbon monoxide detectors.