There are many reasons an individual might have a need to make unique adjustments to their surroundings. The requirements range everywhere from height considerations and hearing loss to aging and Parkinson’s. The goal is always to accommodate the need or handicap without using conspicuous design. Ideally, any adjustments should help normalize life, leaving it open to exploration, independence and freedom of movement.
Special Needs
In specific human terms, any assistance must incorporate a deep sensitivity to the emotional aspects associated with special needs and a prevailing resistance to accepting the help that is needed. In most cases, the individual needing assistance is already feeling considerable embarrassment and grief over the loss of autonomy and capabilities. The experience must also recognize and adapt to the pace at which people can comfortably work and make decisions, and finally, it must honor the past, the individuals contributions to family and community while creating a vision of an improved present and future.
Client quote:
“You really changed my life. Thank you for being so helpful and nonjudgemental.”
___________________________________________________________________________ Copyright © 2008; Nancy Wesson, Focus On Space. All rights reserved.
There are many ways to approach what the architectural community and Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) refer to as Barrier Free Design. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) categorizes adjustments on a per-room basis, and that is my approach as well.
Office: 1-512-243-6643
Some special needs include:
Focus on Space helps create spaces with:
