2. Knee space can be accommodated under sinks with recessed piping and/or removable cabinets. Pipes should be padded to protect knees and legs.

3. Dishwashers require approach space to load and unload dishes from w/c.

4. Lever or asymmetrical faucets are easier to operate than turning knobs.

5. Sinks should have a shallow basin with a rear drain to allow better reach, and posterior pipe placement to increase knee room under sink.

6. Counter edges are rounded to increase resident safety.

7. Water sprayers are not recommended as residents may want to spray floors, windows, etc…

8. Pull down shelves inside of high wall cabinets increases usable storage space. A long handled reacher with a built up handle could be used to pull the shelves down while seated in w/c.

9. Fixed shelves should be replaced with revolving or roll out shelves for w/c users.

10. Cabinets are easier to open with loop handles than small knobs.

11. Adjustable counters allow a variety of working heights for different users. Surfaces should resist glare.

12. Floor area has a large turning radius which enables w/c users easy access to all areas of the kitchen.

13. Floor surface should be easy to clean, but not slippery when wet. A solid color will enable residents to better locate dropped utensils or food.

14. Cleaning appliances and agents are stored safely preventing accidental ingestion by residents. Locks should be as inconspicuous as possible.

15. Stove controls should be mounted in the front so they are reachable. Enlarged control knobs are also available.  Induction cook tops are a safer alternative than standard stove tops.

16. A mirror might be mounted over the stove to allow the monitoring of food without bending over the stove ( loose clothing can catch fire ).

17. Self-cleaning ovens decrease scrubbing and reach requirements.

18. Counters should be available next to stoves and ovens so that heavy items can be slid not carried.

19. Microwaves with large control panels are easier to operate. Doors which open automatically when the time has expired are helpful if grip is limited and doors are difficult to open. Appliances with large buttons, knobs, or handles are easier to operate.

20. Appliances not in use should be stored out of sight to lessen distractions..

21. A wide variety of kitchen accessories are available for persons with disabilities. The Sammons catalogue would be an excellent resource to illustrate products which are currently available. Other helpful tips include: labels can be added to further assist residents with proper organization of plates, silverware, etc… in cabinet and storage areas. Borders around edges of plates would provide increased visual cue to decrease possible spills. Oversized plates with raised edges would help to restrict spills. Color of beverage cups/mugs should be the opposite color of the liquid inside. (e.g. white coffee cups and white milk glasses). Avoid lightweight cups which may tip easily (i.e. styrofoam ).