Rightsizing for people with disabilities is about more than just choosing a smaller or larger space—it’s about creating a home environment that is accessible, safe, and supportive of their unique needs and lifestyle. A right-sized home should accommodate mobility, health, and personal preferences while fostering independence and comfort.
Here’s how to approach rightsizing with accessibility in mind, ensuring the new home aligns with current and future needs.
1. Why Rightsizing Is Essential for People with Disabilities
1. Enhanced Accessibility
A properly sized and designed home minimizes physical barriers and maximizes ease of movement.
2. Improved Safety
Features like grab bars, ramps, and accessible bathrooms reduce the risk of injury, creating a safer living environment.
3. Reduced Maintenance
Smaller, manageable homes make upkeep easier, reducing physical strain and financial burdens.
4. Independence
A well-designed space empowers individuals to navigate and use their home independently.
5. Future Planning
Rightsizing with universal design principles ensures the home continues to meet needs as mobility changes over time.
2. Key Features to Look for in a Rightsized Home
1. Step-Free Access
- No-step entries are essential for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
- Look for homes with ramps or the ability to add them easily.
2. Wide Doorways and Hallways
- Doorways should be at least 32–36 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs.
- Hallways should provide enough clearance for easy navigation.
3. Accessible Bathrooms
- Roll-in showers with handheld showerheads.
- Grab bars near toilets and showers for added support.
- Sinks and vanities with space underneath for wheelchair access.
4. Single-Level Living
- Ranch-style homes or condos eliminate the need for stairs, reducing barriers for those with mobility challenges.
5. Adjustable Features
- Counters, cabinets, and shelves at reachable heights.
- Lever-style door handles and faucets for easy use.
6. Smart Home Technology
- Voice-activated devices for controlling lights, appliances, and security systems.
- Automated doors and blinds to improve ease of use.
7. Adequate Turning Space
- Open floor plans or areas with at least 5 feet of turning radius for wheelchair users.
8. Proximity to Services
- Close to medical facilities, public transportation, and accessible shopping centers.
3. Rightsizing Options for People with Disabilities
1. Accessible Apartments
- Ideal for those seeking minimal maintenance and single-level living.
- Often equipped with elevators, ramps, and other ADA-compliant features.
2. Condominiums
- Offer low-maintenance living with access to shared amenities like fitness centers and pools.
- Many newer condos incorporate universal design elements.
3. Townhomes with Elevators
- Multi-level townhomes with built-in elevators or stairlifts provide accessibility without sacrificing space.
4. Small, Single-Family Homes
- Ranch-style homes or bungalows with open layouts are excellent for personalized modifications.
5. Co-Living Spaces
- Shared living arrangements with accessible features offer affordability and social connection.
4. Adapting an Existing Home
If moving isn’t an option, adapting your current home may be the best approach.
Popular Modifications:
- Ramps: Install ramps at entryways for wheelchair access.
- Grab Bars and Railings: Place them in key areas like bathrooms, hallways, and staircases.
- Widen Doorways: Adjust doorframes to ensure wheelchair clearance.
- Stairlifts or Elevators: Add stairlifts or home elevators for multi-level access.
- Flooring: Replace carpets with hard, smooth surfaces like hardwood or vinyl for easier movement.
5. Financial and Support Resources
1. Grants and Programs
- Medicaid Waivers: Covers some home modifications for accessibility.
- Veterans Affairs (VA): Offers financial assistance for disabled veterans to modify or purchase accessible homes.
- State Programs: Many states, including Michigan, provide funds for accessibility improvements.
2. Tax Benefits
- Home modifications related to medical needs may qualify as tax-deductible expenses.
3. Nonprofits
- Organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together help with affordable housing and modifications.
6. Ann Arbor Housing Options
Accessible Condos
- Ashley Terrace: Located downtown with elevator access and proximity to healthcare facilities.
- Liberty Lofts: Modern condos with open floor plans, ideal for customization.
Single-Family Homes
- Ranch Homes in Scio Township: Spacious, single-level properties perfect for accessibility improvements.
- Burns Park Neighborhood: Smaller homes close to amenities and parks.
Active Adult Communities
- Brookhaven Manor: A 55+ community designed with accessibility and senior-friendly features.
Affordable Housing
- Avalon Housing: Provides affordable housing options with accessibility in mind.
7. Emotional and Practical Considerations
1. Embrace the Change
Moving or modifying your home can feel daunting, but focusing on the benefits—independence, safety, and comfort—helps ease the transition.
2. Involve Loved Ones
Family members and caregivers can offer support during the process, ensuring your new home meets all your needs.
3. Work with Professionals
Hire accessibility consultants, architects, or contractors with experience in universal design to make the process seamless.
8. Steps to Rightsizing Successfully
- Evaluate Your Needs:
- List essential features like single-level living or proximity to healthcare.
- Research Housing Options:
- Explore local markets for homes with existing accessibility features or potential for modifications.
- Plan for the Future:
- Choose a home that can accommodate changing needs, such as additional accessibility upgrades or caregiving spaces.
- Set a Budget:
- Include purchase, modification, and moving costs in your plan.
- Take Your Time:
- Rightsizing is a significant decision. Ensure the home you choose meets both current and future needs.
9. Success Stories
Accessible Townhome
After a spinal cord injury, Sarah downsized from a two-story home to a ranch-style townhome in Ann Arbor. The open floor plan, roll-in shower, and proximity to her favorite coffee shop allowed her to maintain independence while enjoying her community.
Customized Condo
Mike, a wheelchair user, purchased a condo downtown and worked with a contractor to install wider doorways, a wheelchair-accessible kitchen, and smart home devices. The low-maintenance living and walkability to shops transformed his quality of life.
Rightsizing for people with disabilities is about creating a living environment that promotes safety, independence, and comfort. By focusing on accessibility, affordability, and location, you can find a home that fits your unique needs and lifestyle. In a community like Ann Arbor, where options range from accessible condos to single-family ranch homes, there’s a perfect solution for every individual. With thoughtful planning and the right support, rightsizing can provide the foundation for a happier, more fulfilling life.