Getting from the Cabin
to the Lake
by Jane Hampton, CID, Access Specialist
Dear Jane,
We have owned a cabin in northern Minnesota for several years. We
have a steep hill down to the lake. As we continue to age, the slope
is becoming more and more difficult for us to navigate. It has always
been our desire to sell our existing home in the Twin Cities after
retirement and live at the cabin permanently. We are wondering what
options are available to access the lake in the event we can no longer
use the current pathway.
Tom and Judy, Stillwater,
MN
Dear Tom and Judy,
How fortunate you are to have a place to enjoy! There are many reasons
that walking steep slopes becomes very difficult as we age. Rest
assured there are options available to you in making the lake accessible
from your lake home.
Steps
Some individuals find it useful if a set of low-rise steps are constructed
into the hill, where the maximum riser height is four inches. Lower
risers are easier to climb and less fatiguing than typical steps.
Adding a landing or rest area with a bench to break up a long stairway
can be a nice feature for recouping exerted energy. Ideally, if positioned
to capture a vista or lake view, this bench will create new ways
for you to enjoy your property.
If you are ambulatory and need to use a walker for support, the
tread width of each stair should be approximately 36” to
42” wide and the depth should be determined by the size of
your mobility aid PLUS your body.
Stair treads can be
constructed out of green treated wood, pavers/bricks, or out of
a metal mesh material nailed onto a treated wood frame. The advantage
of a mesh surface material is that is will allow water, small leaves,
sand, etc. to fall through the mesh openings and provide additional
texture without building up on the tread surface thus requiring
continual maintenance. Note, however, that metal mesh is not so
wonderful on bare feet…but effective.
Sturdy handrails should be provided on both sides of the stairway.
Install guardrails, if needed, to avoid falling off the side of the
stairs.
Tram
If using steps is not an option, a tram-type lift system can be
installed. These units have a platform that is sized large enough
to accommodate a wheelchair, cart or other mobility equipment. Trams
are installed with a rail system firmly cemented into the ground.
There are models that provide a choice of either forward or side
entrance and exit. Trams are operated by electricity and offer controls
at the top, bottom and on the platform itself.
Dock
Docks can be newly constructed or modified to allow easier access
into a boat as well. Design guidelines are available through the
Federal Access Board as part of the Recreation Facility Guidelines
of the Americans with Disabilities Act
I hope this information is helpful and you are able to enjoy your
cabin for many years beyond retirement. Good luck!
Do you have a question
for Jane and Accessibility Design? We’ll
cover all of your questions in future issues of Home Access Answers.
Please contact us: 952-925-0301. www.accessibilitydesign.com, info@accessibilitydesign.com
Jane Hampton, CID, president of Accessibility Design, founded the
company in 1992 to enhance lives through design and project management.
The company provides design, consultation, project management, and
product recommendation services specializing in home access for individuals
with disabilities at all stages of life.
