The meaning of the word "decoration" is to adorn a place, but in this article, I will use it in the context of arranging, discussing how the homes of visually impaired individuals can be organized for both ease of use and safety. After all, visually impaired individuals can also design and organize their homes to be accessible and functional, right?
First of all, let's think on behalf of individuals who have no opinion.
The simplicity of the house increases usability. The lack of unnecessary crowding will prevent injuries as well as expand the movement area. For example, in order to reduce the danger in the halls, oval corner coffee table models without glass can be preferred. Instead of scattering more than one coffee table in the living room, you can get coffee tables that are arranged from large to small and can be removed and used as needed. Other items should be sturdy, accessible, durable and protected.
By protected, I mean that most of the furniture they prefer should have oval rather than sharp edges, or special spongy bands attached to the edges of the furniture. For example, blind individuals who want to use the television with a television table without fixing it to the wall, or families with small children, toddlers, toddlers can choose. These materials are designed to minimize potential harm when bumped into, enhancing safety. Blind individuals can also consider using these items.
Furniture (cabinets, drawers, etc.) should also be equipped with sliding doors. Even if these doors are left open, they will minimize the risk of possible impact during absent-mindedness. Likewise, these systems can be preferred in drawers. When there are controlled closing systems, fast closing situations and open situations can be experienced less. It is also possible to maintain order in the drawers by using an Organizer. In this way, each drawer will be tidy and individuals with low vision will be able to sort their clothes by color and place them in the organizers. Individuals who do not see at all can distinguish their clothes by putting their own markings on the organizers.
Of course, there are details we can pay attention to for the seats. Sufficient distance should be provided between the seats and seats with high legs should be used. Thus, they will be more comfortable to move. Choosing fabric colors in dark tones will be a good tactic for people who cannot see, as it will camouflage small stains, albeit slightly.
Now, let's address the important but often overlooked topic of lighting when visually impaired individuals are setting up their homes. For example, bulbs with adjustable on/off switches can be used. This is quite advantageous for people with limited vision or no vision at all since it is easier to discern when they are turned on or off compared to other types of switches. Individuals with some light perception can also use these in low-light mode.
Finally, regarding water, for sinks, instead of faucets that can only be turned on or off by rotating, you can opt for faucets that can be easily adjusted by hand with multiple features or sensor-controlled faucets, which can be very practical and convenient.
Author: Hatice Soyaslan / BlindLook Visually Impaired Community
