Kitchens

There are many modifications and products that will make the kitchen accessible and safe. We'll start with the minor modifications and work up to a fully accessible kitchen renovation. Kitchens are important because we spend a lot of time there. Keep in mind that some modifications are expensive but pale in comparison to hospital and medical bills or a permanent injury that could have been prevented with some home modifications.

Make sure there is good lighting especially for those with compromised eyesight. Under cabinet lighting is a good place to start and many differing styles are available including some that use batteries and can be easily installed. However, it's best to have fixtures hard-wired and controlled by a wall switch. The important thing is to be able to see the contrast between the edge of counter surfaces and other elements.

Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees, or less to prevent scalding or install an anti-scald device for your sink.

Remove all clutter from counter tops and workspaces. If small appliances could be moved to a more convenient area but electrical outlet locations are prohibiting this, have some new outlets installed. All outlets must be hardwired to a GFI to prevent electrical shock.

Have the drawer and cabinet hardware changed to "U"-shape design or similar accessible hardware that is easier to grasp.

A new 6-1/2'' deep ada kitchen sink doesn't require as much bending and works well for handicap kitchen modifications that require open knee space underneath for wheelchair accessibility.

Have a new ada compliant faucet installed with levered design instead of knobs. The

faucet can be mounted on the side of the sink instead the back for easier reach. A pull out spray hose is also more helpful.

Countertops should not have sharp corners and should be rounded off. If purchasing new Formica® counter tops, different colors can be used to contrast different heights and edges. Wood trim on the edge can also be incorporated to smooth edges and provide contrast.

Have pull-out shelves installed (full extension), on lower cabinets and pantry. Lazy-susan shelving in corner cabinets improves accessibility

and use of space. Have pull-down hardware installed on upper cabinet shelving. 

If you have a microwave mounted over the stove and have reach and strength impairments, have it moved to the countertop. Some units vent on the bottom and can not be relocated, so a new microwave may be required. Have a pull-out cutting board or similair shelf installed with heat resistant surface to set hot foods on from the microwave if countertop area is limited.

Have the cabinet under sink modified to allow clear knee space. A scald guard needs to be installed or wrapped around plumbing to prevent burns. You can also have the same modifications under counters, and cook tops. A garbage disposal can block this area so a wide double-sided sink with the drain as far back as possible is preferable.

You can have variable height (28“- 42“) countertop surfaces to perform tasks easier or while sitting.

Universal design kitchens incorporate raised dishwashers up 6''- 8'' for less bending.

Have new handicap accessible cabinets installed that raise and lower for variable heights either manually or mechanically.

Accessible cabinets are lower height and have a raised toe kick area for wheelchair users. They can also incorporate many of the items listed above.

Have a wall-mounted oven installed at the preferred height to eliminate bending. Some accessible appliances come with a side-swing open door which greatly improves access.

Have a new cook top installed with flat surface to make sliding pots and pans less dangerous and cleaning easier. Look for cook tops with controls at the front to eliminate reaching and have pushbuttons as opposed to twisting knobs. Make sure the controls are easy to read and easy to use. Sometimes simple is better. Some cook tops have indicator lights that warn of hot surfaces, and have built-in timers. Cooktops can be installed in accessible kitchen islands with lower surface height and open area underneath.

Manufacturers are now making "drawer dishwashers" that can be built into your cabinets and slide in and out just like a drawer. They are smaller in size but can be located at nearly any height. You can also get a small 20" (approximate) cube size countertop dishwasher for small loads and convenient accessibility.

Many people, and especially those in wheelchairs feel that side by side refrigerators are easier to use and more accessible. They are available with large easy-to-grasp handles and water/ice dispenser on the outside of door. Pull-out adjustable height shelving and shelving in the door make these units especially convenient.

Most new appliances are energy efficient, come with easy to use controls and advanced features that make life easier. They can also pay for themselves in energy savings.

These accessible kitchen modifications will help those with independent living and incorporate home safety. Have a local CAPS expert kitchen remodeler evaluate your home for suggestions and accessible and handicap kitchen remodeling.