The Push for Accessible Housing in Canada: Why Universal Design Matters

What Is The Accessible Housing Network?

The Accessible Housing Network (AHN) is a coalition of over 70 nonprofit organizations across Canada, united to make a powerful but simple message: all new houses must be designed with accessibility as the priority. Co-founder Kate Chung emphasizes universal design as the norm and not the exception, which makes houses home for everyone, regardless of age and ability.

Common Accessibility Challenges in Canadian Homes

From steps that prevent wheelchair users from entering a home at all to slim bathroom doors that won't allow walkers to pass through them, common design errors have serious consequences. Immovable countertops in kitchens, inaccessible showers, and the lack of bathrooms on main levels in multi-story homes all point to how current standards fail those who are recovering from surgery, living with mobility impairments, or aging in general.

What Is Universal Design in Home Design?

Universal design is creating spaces that anyone can use without needing to adapt. From creating kitchens that are accessible by standing individuals and wheelchair users, to light switches and countertops within reach for all, universal design removes barriers before they exist. It's intuitive, inclusive, and flexible designed for everyone, not the "average" individual.

Is Universal Design More Expensive?

Contrary to public perception, it's not. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) indicates that accessible design costs almost the same to incorporate into new apartments and little more than 1% added for houses. Upfront accessibility costs are best by saving dollars in the long run by reducing falls, hospital stays, caregiver fatigue, and expensive revisions or long-term care.

Why Don't We See More Universal Design in Ontario?

A blame game between different levels of government is at the heart of the issue. The federal, provincial, and municipal governments point fingers at one another and nothing is accomplished. In spite of national efforts like the Accessible Canada Act and organizations like CMHC, nothing is accomplished unless all levels are prepared to act.

Global Examples of Universal Design in Action

Australia and Norway lead the way. Australia's building code mandates accessible homes for all under the phrase "livable design." In Norway, state-subsidized housing loans are made available only for universally designed homes. Even Toronto is beginning to institute accessibility features in government-subsidized housing, but private construction continues to be behind.

Tips for people looking for homes for the rest of their life

When thinking long-term, it’s important to consider whether a home can adapt with you over time. Features like no-step entries, doorways that allow for mobility aids, and bathrooms that could accommodate future upgrades all make a difference. The accessibility design specifications adopted by the City of Toronto are a helpful tool when making any renovation or real estate decision even if no laws require them yet.

How You Can Make a Difference in Accessible Housing

Change will not happen without public pressure. Contact your town councillors, provincial Parliament members, and Parliament members. Schedule meetings, write letters to ask for them, or get them to visit your apartment complex to observe for themselves the accessibility issues. Most never consider accessibility until they or people close to them are affected by it and, at that point, it is too late. According to Kate Chung, an institution bed is no home. All human beings deserve to live a life of dignity and independence.

To learn more about the Accessible Housing Network and how you can support their advocacy, visit: Accessible Housing Network