Reston Citizens Association: Accessibility Forum 5/08/06

"I relayed to a relative, a recent amputee, information I heard at RCA's Accessibility Forum how John Canning, one of the presenters who has MS and lives alone, converted his 3-story townhouse to become completely accessible from his wheelchair. The relative found the information very uplifting since she had no idea that someday she might be able to use the toilet without assistance...get up from a couch and into her wheelchair by herself...cook a meal, or bathe. These activities of daily living that we all take for granted, she had resigned herself to never being able to do alone again (and she is not yet 60 years old). Hearing from me about John Canning' experience has given her a new lease on life. She looks forward to meeting John Canning and seeing his house as well as all the adaptive technologies he uses to be independent. For me, seeing my relative's reaction to my description of John and his capabilities made all the effort put in to this forum worthwhile. Thanks so much for this helpful presentation."

Tim McMahon Cathy Hudgins Ken Bonner
Reston Interfaith Fairfax Co. Supervisor Architect

The housing infrastructure of Reston was mostly designed before access for disabled persons was an issue. For the most part, residential accessibility is not required under relevant law, but is becoming increasingly important. As Restonians acquire mobility impairments with age, they find they must move outside of Reston to locate suitable housing. This is a sad departure from one of Reston's goal of enabling residents to remain in the community throughout their lives. How, instead of moving, can we adapt our housing?

“Visitability” is an even newer concept than accessibility. “Visitability” is a level of home accessibility less than full accessibility for mobility impairments. How, in a community with so many vertically oriented townhouses, will we be able to visit our friends, if we become wheelchair users? How will they visit us?

The goals of this forum were to discuss these issues and to begin to identify contractors who are experienced with making accessibility and visitability modifications. These would include ramps, accessible bathrooms, residential elevators and lifts, and other accommodations. While most modifications may be for the benefit of individual homeowners (and their visitors), some modifications to common areas or to shared areas may also help to make Reston a place where we can “age in place” and maintain contact with our friends.

As always, RCA's forums are free to the public. For more info, contact Marion Stillson at (703) 860-0019 or at mbs@point0.net

Fatima Miller

Bob Simon (founder of Reston) addressing audience at RCA Accessibility Forum