1. DeafBlind Ontario Services, Canada
Bringing Accessibility Solutions to Our Homes and
Communities For Today and Tomorrow
Angela Brown and Lorraine Simpson
August 13, 2019

2. OUR HISTORY
In 1989, a group of motivated
parents lobbied the Ontario
government as advocates on
behalf of their children who
were deafblind, in an attempt
to secure funding for
community-based supported
living programs.
On April 6, 1989, we were
incorporated as a not-for-profit
organization.

3. Canada
Ontario

4. Presentation Objective
Showcase some of the changes around accessibility
DeafBlind Ontario Services has made to new and
existing environments.
These changes better meet the needs of someone who
has a sensory loss, restricted mobility, and is aging, in
order for them to live in their own homes for as long as
possible.

5. Accessibility Standards Guide
Provides guidance and information to architects,
designers and service providers in understanding
deafblindness and how to create accessible spaces
that are user friendly and inclusive to all.
We utilize these standards and approaches in a variety
of environments to increase functionality, safety,
independence and overall accessibility for those with
varying abilities.

6. Meeting the Needs
Our standards far exceed the law in
Ontario around accessibility but there is
no funding available to facilitate this.
Self confidence and independence are
very important to the clients we support.

7. Accessibility
StandardsGuide
The guide considers many areas of the home including:
Lighting
Color and contrast
Doors and windows
Appliances
Flooring
Counters and cabinets

8. Lighting
Natural light can be regulated with window coverings.
Where possible, dimmer switches should be considered to
adjust the amount of light required to suit an individual’s
preference.
Living spaces require a minimum light level of 200 lux.
Kitchens as well as bathroom vanities require a minimum
light level of 300 lux.
Work stations, under kitchen cabinets and bathroom
cabinets, require a minimum light level of 500 lux.

9. Lighting

10. Colour and Contrast
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2017/10/nailing-accessibility-design/
There are two components to visual contrast, luminance contrast and
difference in colour.
Colour is the difference between one colour and another on the colour
wheel.
Luminance contrast is the degree of difference in brightness between
one object or surface and another.

11. Colour and Contrast

12. Doors and Windows
Doors should be a minimum width of 36 inches, with
contrasting lever style handles.
Paint colour on the walls should contrast with the door
trim.
Doors that exit to the outside should be zero clearance
for ease of mobility.
Window coverings that allow regulation of natural light
for individual requirement.

13. Doors and Windows

14. Appliances
It is preferable to have a side by side refrigerator with
contrast colour on appliance handles.
Roll out shelves or drawers improve access to the
refrigerator contents.
Cooktop should have controls at the front or side to avoid
reaching.
Tactile markers at commonly used settings for stoves,
washers, dryers and dishwashers.

16. Flooring
Flooring should colour contrast to the cabinets and
walls.
Flooring should be non slip with a matte finish to reduce
glare.
Tactile markers may define different areas such as
bathroom and bedroom entryways, and stairs.

17. Flooring

18. Counters and Cabinets
Accessible counter tops should colour contrast with the
backsplash and cabinets.
Contrasting D pull handles should be used for cabinets
and drawers.
Electrical outlets should be located at the side or front of
counters and colour contrast with the surrounding
surfaces.
Roll out drawers are ideal with contents organized for
ease of access.

19. Counters and Cabinets

20. Accessibility in the Community
Lift systems in the change room of the
pool
Automatic door openers at local
businesses
Mobi mat to the beach
Accessible washrooms
Accessible zip line
Accessible vans

21. Accessibility in
our Communities

22. Play the Video

23. Questions
• Our guide can be downloaded by
visiting www.deafblindontario.com