Glossary

U.S. legislation ensuring access and accommodations for individuals with disabilities in public and private spaces.

The ability to live in one’s home safely and independently, regardless of age or ability.

An architectural approach that eliminates physical barriers to mobility and access within a space.

Upgrading bathrooms for improved safety, comfort, and accessibility—often including roll-in showers or grab bars.

Official approval required before starting certain home improvement or construction projects.

The process of forming solid surfaces like ramps, sidewalks, or foundations using mixed concrete.

Building an elevated outdoor platform, often with accessibility features like ramps or railings.

Design features that allow individuals with mobility, hearing, or vision impairments to safely navigate spaces.

Mounting sheets of drywall to frame walls or ceilings in new or remodeled rooms.

Fixing holes, cracks, or water damage in wall surfaces made of drywall.

Applying protective or decorative coatings to a home’s exterior siding, trim, or structures.

Restoration or reinforcement of external structures like porches, decks, or ramps to ensure safety.

Decorative or protective materials placed around doors, windows, and corners of a building’s exterior.

Safety bars installed in bathrooms or near stairs to support balance and reduce fall risks.

Support rails installed along stairs or walkways to provide stability for individuals with limited mobility.

A professional evaluation of a home's layout to identify improvements for better accessibility.

Physical changes made to a home to improve access and independence for individuals with disabilities.

Material used to reduce heat loss or gain in a building, improving comfort and energy efficiency.

Remodeling and updating interior spaces to improve function, appearance, or accessibility.

Adding mechanical devices such as stair lifts or platform lifts to aid movement between levels.

A shower with a minimal step or no barrier, designed for wheelchair access or limited mobility.

Custom woodwork including trim, cabinetry, or railings used in home interiors and exteriors.

Inclined surfaces that replace stairs, providing wheelchair or walker access to entrances and raised areas.

The process of changing the structure, layout, or appearance of a space to meet current needs.

A dedicated, accessible area within the home designed for rest, therapy, or caregiver use.

Adding accessibility or safety features to an existing structure without full reconstruction.

A barrier-free shower with level flooring that allows wheelchair users to roll in easily.

The material applied to the exterior of a home to protect it from weather and improve aesthetics.

Flooring designed with texture or materials to reduce the risk of slipping, especially in wet areas.

A small ramp used at doorways or thresholds to eliminate tripping hazards and improve wheelchair access.

A design approach that makes homes usable by all people, regardless of age or ability, without adaptation.

A bathtub with a side door and seating, allowing safer entry and bathing for people with mobility challenges.

Enlarging door frames to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids.