The Power of Zero: A Look at the ZeroStep Program

Ideas that make sense for people with disabilities often make just as much sense for everyone. That’s the case with ZeroStep™, a new program created by Disability Advocates of Kent County.

ZeroStep uses the principles of universal design to create homes that are more functional, safer, and even easier to move into. Common features include a no-step entry, sill-less exterior doors, wider hallways and doors, bathrooms and kitchens with more room to maneuver, higher outlets, and lower light switches.

“A ZeroStep home provides the most inclusive environment for everyone, whether they have a disability or not,” says Jocelyn Dettloff, Development Director for Disability Advocates. “You never know when you or someone you care about will have an injury or disability, and by planning ahead, your home can accommodate anyone.”

Typically, this approach adds less than $2,000 to construction costs, and it may even increase value. “As the population ages, more people will be looking for this type of home,” says Dettloff. “By planning ahead, you can stay in your home as you age, which studies show most people prefer to do.”

Disability Advocates is working to spread the word about ZeroStep and universal design through public seminars. But the program also serves the community in other ways, according to Margaret Biggs, ZeroStep Member at Disability Advocates.

For example, ZeroStep’s interior designer consults with architects, builders, and developers in residential design. After reviewing design and construction documents, she suggests ZeroStep guidelines to eliminate any barriers. Biggs explains, “We recently worked with a condominium developer who wanted to support people across the whole life span. He contacted ZeroStep, and he and the construction manager met with our interior designer. She wrote a comprehensive report on all interior and exterior issues that needed to be addressed. The developer made the changes, and one of his models achieved ZeroStep Certification.”

Another service involves commercial and government organizations interested in accessible building. “ We review plans for new construction and existing facilities and parks for accessibility,” says Biggs. “For example, a local children’s camp requested an assessment of their cabins, medical facility, trails and swimming pool. ZeroStep performed the assessment according to ADA Guidelines and included their additional expertise in universal design. Now the camp has a document from which to work with architects and engineers as they develop renovation plans.”

Of course, ZeroStep also supports individuals with disabilities through its occupational therapy services. One recent success focused on a senior citizen who was unable to stay in his home due to inaccessibility and the onset of dementia. He moved in with a family member, and after ZeroStep’s occupational therapist evaluated the home, they developed a plan for adaptive equipment and a wheelchair ramp. The therapists also secured community funding to help the family pay for expenses and an adult day care center. “This man was able to remain in the community with his family, thus increasing his quality of life,” says Biggs. “He and his family are extremely satisfied and grateful for ZeroStep’s services.”

SIDEBAR
ZeroStep Guidelines are voluntary standards for building a universally designed home. They meet or exceed ICC/ANSI A117.1 – 2003, Fair Housing Guidelines, Michigan Building Code 2006 (based on International Construction Code 2006) and Michigan Residential Code 2006. They are also the qualifying criteria for a “ZeroStep Certified Home©.”

For more information about ZeroStep Guidelines or universal design, please contact Margaret Biggs at (616) 949-1100 ext. 249 or margaret.b@dakc.us

To learn about the Assistive Technology Loan Fund (ATLF), call 800.828.2714 or visit http://www.michiganloanfunds.org/atlf/index.htm.