Renovating A Home For Wheelchair Accessibility

[Iceman90]

My Mom is in a wheelchair, and is looking to move into a new home. Because she is in a wheelchair, and will be for the rest of her life she's looking to make her new home wheelchair accessible so it's easy for her.

We're debating if it'd be better to renovate an existing house, or build something new that is custom made for what she needs. Does anyone know of any designers, contractors or other such professions who specialize in homes for people in wheel chairs? She'd like to consult with a professional around what would be best.

[Darby]

Stepper Homes has a wheelchair accessible floorplan if you decide to go from scratch.
http://www.stepperhomes.com/building...e-housing.html

More info:
http://www2.canada.com/calgaryherald...1-4a685a026276

Also there should be people who can help advise you and your mom at the local health care stores (Motion Specialties, Medichair, Co-op Home Health Care, etc.) . Good luck.

[Bean]

We had a number of modifications performed for my grandmothers home a few years ago. Les was thoughtful and forward thinking in his design. I found him excellent to deal with:

LCP CONTRACTING & RENOVATIONS LTD
PO BOX 643 OKOTOKS, AB T1S 1A8
Phone/Fax (403) 938-4365 Cell (403) 850-0053


As an aside, if you could use new (or refurbished) accessibility equipment such as wheelchairs, lift chairs or other support items have a chat with Phil at Silver Cross. He was really patient during our transition period and his service is top notch. We bought two lift chairs from him and would have bought more 'nice to have' items if money wasn't an issue.

Phil Hochhausen
SILVER CROSS
Website: http://www.silvercross.com
4634 11 Street NE
Calgary, AB T2E 2W7
Ph: 403-236-1338

[para transit fellow]

You need to visit this page for information on accessible housing in Calgary

http://accessiblehousing.ca/

or more specifically

http://accessiblehousing.ca/what-we-do/


Other information:
This will help you understand what standards/ dimensions you are looking for

alberta barrier free design guide

http://www.safetycodes.ab.ca/Public/..._protected.pdf


This one might be a little more aimed at public facilities with the City of Calgary but it very comprehensive

http://housing.cpa-ab.org/images/fil...0Standards.pdf


A couple of questions to consider
Can Mom weight bear (stand) to transfer to another seat ( toilet?)

Will mom's condition progress/ change in future

If the kitchen counter was lower and cleared of under counter drawers, etc (like a big table/desk) could she cook for herself?

these will help you consider how much renovations you want for the space available