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Residential Visitability

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RESIDENTIAL VISITABILITY “A Practical Solution for Accessibility” San Mateo County Commission on Aging and Commission on Disabilities Background For many seniors and individuals with disabilities, structural barriers, such as stepped entrances and narrow door and entryways can prevent the mere acts of customary socialization of visiting the homes of friends, family, relatives, and neighbors. Although less than 3% of the housing in this country is designed for those with mobility impairments or other disabilities, nearly 80% of us will require special housing needs during our lifetime. Our available housing stock of accessible housing falls far below what is needed as we all “age in place.” Elements of Residential Visitability There are two (2) basic elements of Residential Visitability: 1. “No Step” Entrances An entrance to the home shall be provided which requires no steps. (The location of the no-step entrance is not specific as long as the path of travel to the entrance is accessible) 2. Minimum Widths A minimum width of 2’8” shall be provided for the no step entry doorway, hallway access to the bathroom and at the bathroom doorway. Community Impact of Residential Visitability With more emphasis on “aging in place”, Residential Visitability features enable people to remain living in their existing homes rather than having to move to a nursing home or long-term care facility. Benefits encourage opportunities for socialization and less isolation of individuals with disabilities. Residential Visitability promotes the acceptance of people with disabilities throughout the community. The costs of Residential Visitability for new construction or retrofitting are relatively low when considering the benefits. Practicality of Residential Visitability The accessibility benefits of Residential Visitability can make life easier for all, regardless of whether they have a disability or not. A no-step entrance makes it easy to bring in a stroller or carry in heavy items. It also allows for the maneuvering of large items through wider doorways. By incorporating Residential Visitability features into new construction and existing homes, we can make our community more accessible for all. Statement Of Purpose The Joint Housing Taskforce was established in September of 1998 to assist the Commission on Aging (CoA) and Commission on Disabilities (CoD) in addressing housing concerns related to seniors and people with disabilities in San Mateo County. The goal of the Taskforce is to promote both affordable and accessible housing opportunities allowing seniors and people with disabilities to age in place by continuing their independence and dignity. Many accessibility requirements are required by federal and state regulations as well as local building codes. The recommendations contained herein are intended to compliment existing requirements in an effort to enhance the quality of life for seniors and those with disabilities. “Access is a changeable human feature” Eleanor Smith, Founder Concrete Change Please contact the Commission to receive the Residential Visitabilitybrochure. Top of Page Back