Planning renovations with accessibility in mind and simple ways to prioritize inclusion in new builds
Toronto, ON (November 18, 2024) –
Close to 87 per cent of Canadians believe there should be accessible housing for everyone, according to a newly released national accessibility study by the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF). Yet most multi-residential buildings don’t anticipate the needs of an aging population, which comes with more disabilities.
Nearly two-thirds of Canadians have a disability or live with or take care of a family member with a disability. A report from Statistics Canada, released last year, found that between 2017 and 2022 the disability rate among seniors increased to 40 per cent. “You’re only temporarily able-bodied,” says Brad McCannell, vice president of access and inclusion at RHF and a wheelchair user for 40-plus years. “Everyone will join our community sooner or later, so how do we accommodate that as condo boards and owners?”
McCannell, who is also a member of the Accessibility Standards Canada Board, urges condos to make a concerted effort to get both seniors and people with disabilities on their boards. “There is nothing like the lived experience,” he says. “Get that direct input and it will allow you to anticipate the needs going forward.”
Older condos often face greater challenges when it comes to adapting their property for long-term use, says Kirsten Dale, property manager with MCRS Property Management. She finds the needs associated with aging in place can be complex, but if well supported, residents can comfortably remain in their homes for as long as possible. “When my firm begins working with a new community, we encourage residents to speak up often and early to express their wants and needs as this feedback helps us to plan for their long-term enjoyment of their investment,” she says. “Our residents learn quickly that as they age and their needs change, their homes can evolve right along with them.”