Garage, Carport, and Parking

Some townhomes, condominiums, split level, and multifamily homes have garages, carports, or parking on a basement or street level, with the main living area up one or more floors. Having a garage or parking on the same level as the main floor of your home is a preferable feature for aging in place; it allows for easy access to and from your vehicle. It also facilitates access to other typical items kept in garages, such as tools, storage, freezers, and second refrigerators.

A garage door opener will allow you more convenient and safe access to your home. Make sure it has a safety feature which stops the door from closing if anything or anyone is under it. Make sure that when the garage door opens or closes, the lights stay on long enough for you to get into the house or your car. In general, make sure the garage is adequately lit. Proper lighting makes it easier for you to find things and reduces your risk of falling.

If your home lacks an attached garage or carport, having a detached garage, carport, or parking area close to the entrance facilitates your walk to and from the car. It also facilitates the transfer of packages and minimizes weather-related discomforts and risks of slipping and falling.

Space to Move
Garages, carports, and other parking areas should be roomier than normal to accommodate wheelchairs or other assistive devices. Leave five feet between vehicles so you can get in and out of vehicles. Your garage door may need to be a little taller to allow access for a van with a taller roof.
Floors and Entries

If your garage is attached to your home and has a door into the home or a side door, take the precautionary steps discussed for entrances in section 9-1-11. Consider adding a nonslip coating to your entire garage floor to help reduce the chance of slipping and falling.

Adjustable Storage Systems
Some townhomes, condominiums, split level, and multifamily homes have garages, carports, or parking on a basement or street level, with the main living area up one or more floors. Having a garage or parking on the same level as the main floor of your home is a preferable feature for aging in place; it allows for easy access to and from your vehicle. It also facilitates access to other typical items kept in garages, such as tools, storage, freezers, and second refrigerators.

A garage door opener will allow you more convenient and safe access to your home. Make sure it has a safety feature which stops the door from closing if anything or anyone is under it. Make sure that when the garage door opens or closes, the lights stay on long enough for you to get into the house or your car. In general, make sure the garage is adequately lit. Proper lighting makes it easier for you to find things and reduces your risk of falling.
If your home lacks an attached garage or carport, having a detached garage, carport, or parking area close to the entrance facilitates your walk to and from the car. It also facilitates the transfer of packages and minimizes weather-related discomforts and risks of slipping and falling.

Space to Move
Garages, carports, and other parking areas should be roomier than normal to accommodate wheelchairs or other assistive devices. Leave five feet between vehicles so you can get in and out of vehicles. Your garage door may need to be a little taller to allow access for a van with a taller roof.
Floors and Entries

If your garage is attached to your home and has a door into the home or a side door, take the precautionary steps discussed for entrances in section 9-1-11 above. Consider adding a nonslip coating to your entire garage floor to help reduce the chance of slipping and falling.

Adjustable Storage Systems
Adjustable storage systems in the garage help you to keep things organized and within view. Adjustable systems also allow you to make changes as your needs change.

Adjustable storage systems in the garage help you to keep things organized and within view. Adjustable systems also allow you to make changes as your needs change.

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