Q Why are the needs of people with sensory impairment not addressed by Lifetime Homes?

A The Lifetime Homes Standards promote accessible and adaptable housing. The Standards relate to the design and construction of the bricks and mortar of the home, or in other words, the structure. Should a person acquire a mobility impairment, and the structure of the home is well designed, a through the floor lift or a stair lift could be installed with minimal disturbance and cost. If the structure is not well designed then a stair lift or a through the floor lift may not be a viable or a possible option.

Most of the requirements of people with sensory impairments can be met by fine-tuning the home to the person’s particular needs. Homes can be made more accessible by adding adaptations such as flashing alarm or doorbell systems, or by improving light fittings and colour contrasting. Most of the adjustments would not involve structural adjustments.