13. ADA

Vocabulary flashcards covering ADA requirements, Universal Design principles, Aging-in-Place concepts, home modification solutions, and assessment resources.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A 1990 U.S. civil-rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, public services, and public accommodations.

ADA Environmental Provisions

Standards within the ADA specifying accessible features such as entrance, doorway, hallway, bathroom, and ramp requirements.

Zero-step entrance

An entryway with no steps or vertical rise, allowing smooth wheelchair or walker access.

Doorway clearance – 32 inches

Minimum clear width required by ADA for doorways to accommodate wheelchairs.

Threshold – ½ inch maximum

The greatest allowable height difference at a doorway floor transition under ADA guidelines.

Hallway width – 36 inches

ADA minimum corridor width enabling safe wheelchair passage.

Grab bar height – 33–36 inches

ADA-specified vertical placement range for handrails in restrooms.

Wheelchair turning radius – 60 inches

The unobstructed circular floor space needed for a chair to turn 180°.

Ramp slope – 1:12

ADA ratio meaning 1 inch of rise for every 12 inches of run for safe wheelchair ramps.

Ramp landing

Level platform required at the top and bottom of a ramp for rest and maneuvering.

Handrail height – 34–38 inches

Vertical range for railings along ramps or stairs to meet ADA standards.

Universal Design

Design approach creating environments usable by all people, regardless of age or ability, without the need for adaptation.

Equitable spaces

Universal Design principle promoting the same means of use for all users, identical when possible.

Flexible spaces

Principle ensuring design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.

Simple, intuitive-use spaces

Principle aiming for easy understanding of how to use the environment regardless of experience or literacy.

Perceptible information

Provision of design cues (visual, auditory, tactile) so essential information is communicated effectively to everyone.

Tolerance for error

Design that minimizes hazards and adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

Low physical effort

Principle requiring minimal sustained force, enabling comfortable use with reduced fatigue.

Size & space for approach and use

Provision of appropriate clearance and reach ranges for any body size or mobility aid.

Aging-in-Place

Living safely and independently in one’s own home as needs change, often through Universal Design modifications.

Sectors of Aging-in-Place

Three client groups: 1) no urgent needs, 2) progressive conditions, 3) needs after traumatic change.

Problem areas in homes

Common hazards such as stairs, thresholds, split levels, bathrooms, kitchens, garages, low-light zones, and closets.

Curbless shower

Barrier-free shower with floor flush to bathroom, eliminating step-over and easing wheelchair roll-in.

Roll-in shower kit

Prefabricated unit allowing wheelchair entry; may have a small 1-inch lip post-installation.

Grab bar

Wall-mounted support device installed near toilets or showers to aid balance and transfers.

Lever handle

Door or faucet hardware operated with a downward push, easier for limited grip or dexterity.

Anti-scald control

Fixture feature limiting maximum water temperature to prevent burns.

Ceiling lift

Overhead track system enabling safe transfer of individuals with mobility limitations between surfaces.

Pneumatic elevator

Home elevator that uses air pressure in a sealed tube to raise and lower a cabin, often retrofit friendly.

Community Health Inclusion Index (CHII)

Assessment tool for measuring and improving how well community sites include people with disabilities in health initiatives.