Kitchen Accessibility with the right choice of drawer pulls and handles
Today we are in a world that prides itself on accessibility. There are constantly growing options in the arena of home furnishings especially drawer pulls and handles that meet the needs of all people no matter their size or capability.
While many rooms in the house are easily made to fit anyone’s physical needs, the catch is usually the kitchen. After all, kitchens are made for so many working uses it’s not always easy to create new designs incorporating drawer pulls and handles that can incorporate all the working parts and expanded accessibility. When it comes to kitchens, one size never fits all. For people who are short, things are always out of reach. For those who are tall, it is uncomfortable to get to things on the lower cabinet levels. If someone has a disability that limits their mobility, problems are only compounded.
Standard kitchens today are not much different from the ‘one size fits all’ drawer pulls and handles concept of 100 years ago. But, today’s designers have also started to expand, and by asking for a few alterations, a new kitchen can be created to suit the needs of the person living in it.
Some of the changes are for those with limited mobility. Trying to use all the items in a kitchen, while wheelchair bound, can be extremely difficult. But with a little ingenuity in the kitchen, things get a lot easier. Some of the modern day mobility kitchen items include using drawer pulls and handles for more than just to open a cabinet or drawer. Now they can be used to move things around as well. With turning counter tops a push or tug on drawer pulls and handles can bring things closer as needed, or push them away when you need counter space. There are also specially built sinks that are at a lower level, making them easy to operate from a seated position, in a wheelchair. Even low-top stoves can be purchased to let a person with limited mobility be able to have access to all the things needed to prepare a meal.
If the person using the kitchen also has some motor skill limitations, simple hardware changes may help. Having drawer pulls and handles that are easier to grip, with rubber handles or with larger pulls so hands can get inside, make this task less of a struggle
When someone suffers with limited vision, a kitchen can be a daunting place to work in. It seems overflowing with hazards. Special lighting can be formulated that helps them get a clearer picture of their surroundings.
For older residents, arthritis and other strength and balance issues are often a concern when taking care of themselves at home. But there are some easy fixes that can help them regain their independence. Start by making sure the floor has non-slip flooring. That way, even if something spills, they will still have the sure footing needed to avoid falling and getting hurt. Additionally, cabinets and counters can be adjusted so they are at a comfortable height for those who are not as comfortable bending low anymore.
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