Page 503 - Biomedical Engineering and Design Handbook Volume 2, Applications

CHAPTER 17

HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN

Blair A. Rowley
Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio

17.1 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 481 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 499
17.2 THE KITCHEN 482 REFERENCES 500
17.3 THE BATHROOM 494

There are many areas of the home both inside and out that may require modification to accommo-
date individuals with disabilities. This chapter discusses two major indoor areas, the kitchen and the
bathroom. The considerations that follow should be used as starting points in meeting the unique
needs of each person who has a disability.

17.1 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

17.1.1 Electrical
The main electrical consideration is safety. The electrical service in the kitchen and bathroom must
incorporate ground-fault monitors as required by local codes. Additional consideration involves the
accessibility of switches and outlets. Lighting is also a factor in meeting the needs of the visually
impaired.

17.1.2 Lighting
Lighting should be nonglare, and areas of lighting should be nonreflective, using low-sheen lami-
nates. Natural lighting, if available, is preferred. Other lighting sources involve incandescent tung-
sten, halogen, or fluorescent lighting. The following are considered when using these.

Incandescent Tungsten. This is a harsh light that creates a sharper edge to objects, allowing them
to be easily differentiated. The yellow and red characteristics of this light give it a better definition
to objects.
Halogen. This is similar to tungsten, except the color characteristics are more constant over the
color spectrum. It is also a brighter light and adds dimension if other lighting is used. It is an excel-
lent light to highlight ceilings and walls and to reduce glare without using a diffuser.

Fluorescent. There are choices in selecting fluorescent bulbs with different color lighting. A full-
spectrum fluorescent light allows the eyes to see items in a natural state; it is a soft light that may

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