Adaptive Equipment - Kitchen
March 24th 2008
Cooking and navigating the kitchen can be a chore for many people who have limited physical abilities. An accessible kitchen may be the answer you are looking for to create an environment that is easy and convenient for all who use this space.
When designing an accessible kitchen, there are several things you should consider:
1. Safety: non-slip floor surfaces, lighting, and non-protruding, rounded-off corner surfaces
2. Mobility: Is there adequate space for movement of a scooter or wheelchair?
3. Accessibility: Can the kitchen be easily accessed from one or more connecting rooms and/or hallways, or are there barriers to prevent access?
4. Function: Can the appliances, counter tops, cabinets, sinks and fixtures be accessed by everyone?
When designing your home, you can create a kitchen to meet your needs by installing ADA compliant cabinets, shelves, kitchen sinks, adjustable height counters, and appliance lifts.
Installing appliances and sinks lower to the ground can make it easier for someone in a wheelchair to access these vital kitchen components. Cabinets that lack handles can be difficult to open, installing easy to grab handles is a great way to improve functionality and is an improvement that will benefit everyone. Take into consideration the location of dishes, cooking utensils and food. Keep items organized and in the same place to eliminate unnecessary time spent looking for them. Additionally Braille, large print or colored labels can aid in locating items.
For more information on accessible kitchens visit: