While progress sometimes feels slow, if you look at the last half-century, you’ll notice great strides in the acceptance of people with disabilities. As society becomes more and more inclusive, the general public is becoming more aware of accommodations that can make the lives of people with physical and intellectual disabilities. Here are a few of the most important.
Ramp Access
Perhaps the most common type of disability remodeling Tacoma WA is ramp installation. People who rely on wheelchairs, crutches, or other ambulatory assistance devices obviously have difficulty navigating stairs. Ramps allow them to access outside entrances and upper levels much more easily.
Restroom Additions
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires commercial businesses like restaurants to make accommodations to their facilities including restrooms. It’s a good idea as well for any establishment with public restrooms to consider having a few sinks and toilets that are set lower for easier access. Extra handles or rails in restroom stalls are also helpful.
Parking Lot Updates
Businesses are required to have a certain number of handicapped parking spaces relative to their size, but it’s also important to make sure there are dips put into curbs to allow people with wheelchairs from the parking lot to the sidewalk. This is another place where railings are helpful. Just make sure they are spaced out enough to navigate between them.
Entrance Accessibility
Beyond ramps and parking, you also should take steps to make entrance doors themselves handicapped-accessible. This can be done with automatic sensors or push-button triggers that will open doors. Ideally, you want to make sure either one can open two side-by-side doors simultaneously to make room for ambulatory devices or caretakers. If your entrance has a doorbell or voice box-based security system, make sure it is low enough to the ground to be reached by a person in a seated position.
