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Increasing Accessibility

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Affordable Accessible Housing: A Guide for People with MS

Navigating the maze of affordable accessible housing agencies and funding sources supporting these alternatives and services can be daunting.

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In this article

Overview

When you face challenges with mobility, the accessibility of the environment can be a major factor in determining how active and engaged you’re able to be. In order to remain fully mobile, your home, workplace, neighborhood, transportation options and recreational activities all need to be suited to your needs.
 
Negative attitudes toward disability and the use of adaptive equipment can create as many barriers as the disability itself. A willingness to do things differently – utilizing whatever tools and strategies best meet the need – enables each person to stay fully mobile and engaged in all aspects of daily life. Using assistive technology isn’t about “giving in” to MS; it’s about taking charge of it.

Adaptations at home and at work

Even fairly simple changes to your home, such as bathroom grab bars or other bathroom modifications, widened doorways, ramps and better lighting, can help you conserve energy, be more efficient in your daily tasks, and avoid dangerous falls. At work, accommodations such as a modified work station, reserved parking and specialized computer equipment, can help you remain productive and mobile.
 
Occupational therapists can help you adapt your environment and understand how accommodations in the workplace can help you maintain employment.

There are resources to help defray the costs of home modifications.

Tools, devices and other technology solutions

A range of tools and devices are available to make everyday activities easier and safer. Technology can keep you connected with family and friends and help you manage your MS, handle everyday tasks, and even maintain a job. Find solutions in such areas as: mobility, housekeeping, workplace accommodations, safety, computers, low vision, recreation by accessing the resources below.
  • Assistive Technology Industry Association 
    Find out about AT products and services the Assistive Technology Industry Association’s (ATIA) members provide by looking through AT manufacturers, sellers, and providers in the ATIA Membership Directory. Learn what AT is.
    ATIA Membership Directory
  • Atvisor
    Users can find products from hygiene and self-care to electronics and accessories. Search through Atvisor’s Product Catalog to find and select products that best fit your needs.
    Atvisor Catalog
  • Global Assistive Technology Network
    This worldwide search engine on technology gives you access to multiple national databases including information about AT products and information about manufacturers and suppliers worldwide.  Information can be translated into your preferred language.
    Assistive Technology Search
  • Searchable Online Accommodation Resource (SOAR)
    Search and find information about various accommodation options in work and educational settings for people with disabilities through SOAR, a database maintained by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN).
    SOAR Database
  • National AgrAbility Project 
    AgrAbility’s database contains assistive technology solutions, designs, ideas, techniques, and suggestions for farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers with disabilities.
    AgrAbility: Toolbox
  • Global Public Inclusive Infrastructure
    Search through this database to find access to communication, computers and digital devices.
    GPII - Unified Listing

Funding Resources for Assistive Technology

  • National Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training (AT3) Center
    A project funded under a federal grant, the AT3 Center maintains a vetted and curated website with robust information about assistive technology (AT). Find information about what AT devices and services are available and where to obtain them. Locate funding resources for purchasing or acquiring AT, as well as device loan and exchange programs that provide used equipment at little to no cost.
    Explore AT
     
    RESNA
    RESNA is a professional organization that helps people with disabilities gain access to technology solutions. Visit RESNA’s webtool to search for certified assistive technology professionals near you.
    Find a Certified Assistive Technology Professional

Community

Become an activist in your own community.  Does your library have an accessible entrance? Can you access your voting site? Do your restaurants have barrier-free restrooms? The Americans with Disabilities Act grants everyone the right to participate in their communities.

Consult with a physical therapist who can help you determine the best mobility device to use when you’re out and about. While you may not use a device at home, you may want to use a scooter or wheelchair to travel long distances and to negotiate your local environment.

Additional resources

Momentum magazine

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