Modest home makeovers to improve farmhouse accessibility: How our AgrAbility team used this fast, affordable alternative to remodeling with the Miller family^*

Issue title: Rural Technology

Guest editors: T. Scott Smith

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Yearns, Mary H.

Affiliations: Iowa State University, 62 LeBaron Hall, Ames, IA 50011, USA

Note: [*] A Cooperative Extension program funded by the United State Department of Agriculture to help farm families, affected by disabilities, remain in farming. The Easter Seal Society is a cooperating partner in the AgrAbility Program in most participating states.

Abstract: The Modest Home Makeover Program offers a cost-effective strategy for improving farmhouse accessibility. The program includes three key ingredients: (1) a team approach involving family members, Extension staff and/or other professionals and volunteers; (2) a focus on low-cost or no-cost improvements; and (3) advance preparation so the makeover can be completed in one intensive ‘work day.’ The makeover process that the AgrAbility team used with the Miller family is described in detail.

Keywords: Accessibility, Farmhouse, Home improvement, Housing

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1995-4108

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 49-60, 1995