ADA Design: 10 Overlooked Features That Can Prevent Falls at Home

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, block-quotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Headings, paragraphs, block-quotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled.

Published by Redline Republic | July 2025

Falls Are the #1 Risk for Seniors at Home — And Most Are Preventable.

If you're helping a parent age in place or planning ahead for your own future, ADA upgrades aren't just about grab bars. True aging-in-place design focuses on prevention, comfort, and smart independence.

Here are 10 overlooked features that actually reduce fall risk — and how we design them into every ADA project.

🔟 1. Smart Motion Lights

No more fumbling for switches in the dark. Motion lights turn on automatically in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms when movement is detected.

🛠 We help plan install points to avoid blind spots.

🔟 2. Zero-Threshold Showers

No curb, no trip hazard. These showers are flush with the bathroom floor and designed with proper drainage to avoid flooding.

🛠 We match finishes that look sleek, not medical.

🔟 3. Slip-Resistant Flooring

Hardwood and glossy tile might look good — but they’re dangerous when wet. We recommend ADA-grade vinyl, matte tile, or textured concrete.

🛠 We provide flooring specs and finish callouts on every ADA plan.

🔟 4. Lever-Style Door Handles

Forget knobs. Levers are easier to use for people with arthritis or limited grip strength.

🛠 We include this as a fixture callout in hardware schedules.

🔟 5. Wider Doorways (36”)

Standard doors are 30–32”. ADA doors should be 36” to allow safe passage — even if a walker or wheelchair is needed in the future.

🛠 We plan these during space layout to avoid future remodels.

🔟 6. Reinforced Walls for Grab Bars

Even if you’re not installing grab bars today, we add backing support in the walls so they can be added later — without opening up the drywall.

🛠 Future-proofing done right.

🔟 7. No-Step Entry Access

Front steps are a huge fall hazard. We redesign entries to allow for ramps, sloped walkways, or side entries that meet ADA slope ratios.

🛠 We include this in site plan grading layouts.

🔟 8. Well-Placed Outlets and Switches

Raising outlets and lowering switches allows for easier access without bending or stretching.

🛠 We provide a custom electrical layout for ADA projects.

🔟 9. Smart Thermostat + Voice Controls

Being able to control lighting, heat, and even doors by voice reduces risk and makes daily life smoother.

🛠 We suggest trusted devices and placement.

🔟 10. Visual Contrast & Lighting

Falls happen when depth perception fails. Adding contrasting colors at edges (e.g., stair treads, counter lips) and layered lighting makes spaces safer.

🛠 We work this into both design and finish callouts.

🔴 The Redline Difference:

We don’t treat ADA design like a checklist. We design for dignity, for safety, and for family peace of mind.

“We help homeowners protect the people they love — before there’s a fall.”
— Ronnie Hinojosa, Redline Republic

🏠 Ready to Design a Safer Home?

Our ADA Design for Seniors package includes:

– Site visit & safety audit
– Drafted plans with smart upgrades
– Permit-ready submittals
– Product and contractor recommendations

👉 [Start My ADA Design Project]
📞 (619) 717‑4528
📸 Instagram: @redlinerepublicx

‍

‍