People with Disabilities are Not Innately Vulnerable (Part 13)

But when they are left out of the adaptation planning process — the consequences can be disastrous

Roth said as communities rebuild after a disaster — or new towns are created to relocate from places that will be underwater in the near future — cities must be

aggressive in requiring that dwellings, even single-family housing, accommodate a wide range of families and abilities.

Especially since 20 percent of the U.S. population is experiencing some form of temporary or permanent disability at any point in time.

“Visitability is such a basic feature that can enhance the value of your home,” she said of designing a home that has a level entrance, wide doorways and bathrooms/

kitchens/bedrooms designed in a way that allows fast/cost-effective adaptation. 

“After an injury, be it at play or in a disaster, most people would not be able to come

home to their own house. Because less than one percent of homes are designed to be inclusive, people end up in a nursing home for months while they try to figure out

if they can adapt their home, move to a new place, or afford either solution.”