Forever Home for our kids with disabilities.

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In this episode of Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities, Valerie welcomes Griffin Simony, co-founder of Shift Projects (formerly Shift Accessibility Contractors). Griffin shares how a desire for more meaningful work and his grandparents’ experience with aging and accessibility challenges inspired him to create a company focused on helping people live more independently and comfortably in their homes.

Together, Valerie and Griffin explore the difference between accessible design and universal design, and why accessibility should be considered from the very beginning of any home renovation or new build. Griffin explains how thoughtful design can create spaces that are not only functional but also beautiful, empowering, and customized to the unique needs of each individual.

The conversation covers:

• How Griffin’s grandparents inspired the creation of Shift Projects
• The difference between accessible design and universal design
• Why accessibility renovations should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing
• Key accessibility features every homeowner should consider
• The importance of curb less showers, wider doorways, and thoughtful floor plans
• Common challenges families face when searching for accessible homes
• Future-proofing a home for changing mobility needs
• Typical costs associated with accessible bathroom renovations, lifts, and elevators
• The role occupational therapists play in successful accessibility projects
• How Shift Projects reduces renovation stress through planning, communication, and project management
• Tips for families considering accessibility renovations

One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is that accessibility does not have to look institutional. Griffin shares how accessible features can be seamlessly integrated into beautiful, welcoming spaces that people are proud to call home.

Whether you're planning for a child with a disability, supporting an aging parent, or simply thinking ahead for your own future, this episode offers practical insights into creating homes that support independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Key Takeaways

✔ Accessibility and beauty can coexist in home design
✔ Universal design benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities
✔ Curb less showers and wider doorways are among the most valuable accessibility features
✔ Future-proofing a home can save significant costs later
✔ Collaboration with occupational therapists leads to better long-term outcomes
✔ Choosing the right contractor can greatly reduce renovation stress

Connect with Griffin Simony

•  Shift Accessibility: https://shiftaccessibility.ca
•  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftprojects/

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Follow the Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities podcast for more conversations that help families create secure, meaningful futures for their loved ones with disabilities.

Remember: Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey 🎒

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful conversation, Valerie welcomes disability life-planning coach Eric Goll to discuss how families can proactively create meaningful futures for their loved ones with developmental disabilities.

Eric Goll is a certified coach from Royal Roads University and founder of Empowering Ability. Eric shares his deeply personal journey of growing up alongside his sister Sarah and the pivotal moment when his mother reached burnout and called for help. That experience led him to dedicate his life to helping families plan beyond crisis and create "awesome ordinary lives" for their loved ones.

Drawing on his experience supporting more than 1,000 families, Eric walks us through his proven 8-Step Life Planning Process, designed to help families move from overwhelm to action.

In This Episode We Discuss:

✅ Why waiting for a crisis often leads to limited options

✅ The importance of starting future planning before burnout occurs

✅ How parents can shift from being caregivers to becoming coaches

✅ Why capability matters more than traditional definitions of independence

✅ The powerful mindset shift from "can't" to "can if"

✅ Building meaningful relationships and support circles

✅ Creating opportunities for contribution, purpose, volunteering, and employment

✅ Why housing should be considered after other life-planning foundations are in place

✅ Exploring ordinary housing options before special or segregated settings

✅ The five layers of sustainable support:

• Self-support (capability)
• Technology supports
• Family supports
• Natural supports
• Paid supports

✅ Breaking a long-term vision into achievable three-month action steps

Eric's 8-Step Life Planning Framework

1. Engage – Commit to creating a vision for the future.
2. Connect – Understand who your loved one truly is.
3. Capability – Build skills and independence one step at a time.
4. Relationships – Create meaningful connections and support circles.
5. Contribution – Foster purpose through volunteering, work, and community involvement.
6. Home – Explore the best living environment for your loved one.
7. Support & Finances – Build sustainable supports and financial security.
8. Implement – Turn the vision into action through practical goals and next steps.

Memorable Quote

"The best time to plant an oak tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today." — Eric Goll

Key Takeaway

You don't have to have the entire plan figured out. The most important step is simply to begin. Small, consistent actions taken today can create a dramatically different future for your loved one tomorrow.

To learn more about Eric’s 8-step process – check here:

Life Planning 101 Guide: https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide-ml/

About the Podcast

Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities is dedicated to helping families create secure, meaningful futures for their loved ones through planning, advocacy, housing solutions, and community connection.

Live with intention. Embrace the journey. 💜

Connect with Eric

https://www.empoweringability.org

https://www.facebook.com/empoweringability

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this week’s episode of Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities, host Valerie welcomes longtime friend and dance educator Telisa Dubasov for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of dance, movement, and community for individuals with disabilities.

Telisa shares her journey from volunteering in disability summer camps as a teenager in Saskatchewan to founding Bloom Wellness Collective — a nonprofit dedicated to making dance, movement, and wellness accessible for people of all abilities. With over 30 years of experience in dance and specialized certifications in adaptive movement, yoga, and sensory regulation, Telisa has created spaces where children and adults with disabilities can experience joy, belonging, connection, and purpose.

Valerie reflects on how Telisa first impacted her own family through private dance lessons for her daughter Melody-Anne, sharing the emotional experience of watching her daughter perform on stage for the very first time.

Together, Valerie and Telisa discuss:

• How dance and movement support sensory regulation, physiotherapy goals, communication, and emotional well-being
• Why movement is “therapy in disguise”
• The importance of meaningful activities for adults with disabilities after graduation
• How Bloom Wellness Collective creates community not only for participants, but for parents and caregivers as well
• The challenges Telisa faced during COVID and how she pivoted with driveway dance parties to continue bringing joy and connection
• The importance of creating opportunities for friendship, belonging, and purpose within a “Forever Home” vision

Telisa also shares details about Bloom’s current programs, including:

• Evening mixed-ability dance classes
• An adult expressive arts and movement day program
• The new monthly “Bloom Mixer” — a fun social dance event for teens and adults with disabilities

This episode is a beautiful reminder that a forever home is about far more than housing — it’s about creating a meaningful life filled with movement, connection, friendship, and community.

Memorable Quote

“Connection is key. Find that village, find that community, and remember to applaud yourself every day for showing up.” — Telisa Dubasov

Learn More

To learn more about Bloom Wellness Collective, visit:
Bloom Wellness Collective

Connect with Telisa

https://www.facebook.com/bloomwellnesscollectiveyyc/ https://www.instagram.com/bloomwellnesscollective/ 

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

About the Podcast

Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities with Valerie explores the practical, emotional, and long-term planning aspects of creating meaningful futures for individuals with disabilities and the families who love them.

Remember to Live with Intention and Embrace the Journey.

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this eye-opening episode, Valerie sits down with Lakshmi Rao Sankar — Executive Director and Co-Founder of Crimson Rise — to explore the transformative impact of communication access for non-speaking autistic individuals.

Lakshmi shares her personal journey as the mother of a non-speaking autistic son and discusses how the groundbreaking “motor sensory paradigm” is changing the way families, educators, and communities understand autism. Through the methodology known as Spelling to Communicate (S2C), many non-speaking autistics are now able to express their thoughts, emotions, intelligence, preferences, and dreams in ways that were previously underestimated or overlooked.

Together, Valerie and Lakshmi discuss:

• The difference between language comprehension and motor ability
• Why non-speaking does not mean non-understanding
• How communication access creates autonomy, agency, and self-determination
• The emotional impact of finally being heard
• The story and mission behind Crimson Rise
• How non-speaking autistic individuals are leading conversations about their own futures
• The importance of including individuals with disabilities in decisions about housing, supports, caregivers, and future planning
• The trauma many non-speakers experience from years of being misunderstood
• Why parents and caregivers must be led by the voices and preferences of their loved ones

Lakshmi also shares inspiring stories of young adults creating their own forever homes, building community, hosting social gatherings, and actively shaping the supports around them.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that every person deserves access to communication, belonging, dignity, and the opportunity to direct their own life.

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, therapist, or advocate, this episode will challenge assumptions and expand your understanding of what is possible for non-speaking autistic individuals.

Key Takeaways

• Communication and speech are not the same thing
• Non-speaking autistic individuals often understand far more than they can physically express
• Access to communication can unlock identity, autonomy, and emotional healing
• Future planning must include the voice of the individual whenever possible
• True inclusion means moving beyond “care” into contribution, leadership, and self-determination

Final Thought

“Your child does not have to live in silence.” — Lakshmi Rao Sankar

Remember to Live with Intention and Embrace the Journey.

Connect with Lakshmi

https://www.crimsonrise.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ew2HZGIusA

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, Valerie welcomes Jennifer Buchanan, certified music therapist, author, and founder of JB Music Therapy.

With more than three decades of experience, Jennifer shares the powerful impact music can have on the brain, nervous system, emotional regulation, memory, connection, and belonging — especially for children and adults with disabilities.

Jennifer opens up about the deeply personal experience that first led her into music therapy after her grandfather suffered a major stroke. What began as a simple Friday evening of singing his favorite song became a life-changing realization of music’s ability to connect, heal, and bring people together.

Together, Valerie and Jennifer explore:

• The science behind music and the brain
• How music supports neuroplasticity, regulation, memory, and emotional wellness
• Why music is deeply connected to human development and belonging
• The role music can play in the home environment
• Using music intentionally to support routines, calm, energy, and connection
• The importance of exploring different genres and musical experiences
• How live music and shared musical moments create lifelong memories
• Why music should remain part of a child’s life into adulthood and within their forever home

Valerie also shares personal stories about her daughter Melody-Anne’s lifelong love of music, including how music became part of their family routines, worship, communication, and expression.

Jennifer reminds parents that music is not reserved for performers or professionals — "It belongs to everyone."

Key Takeaways

• Music activates more areas of the brain than almost any other activity
• Music can support regulation, emotional expression, memory, and development
• Shared musical experiences create strong family memories and connection
• Music can help set the emotional tone within the home
• Every person is musical, whether they perform or not
• Belonging, inclusion, and expression matter deeply for children with disabilities

About Jennifer Buchanan

Jennifer Buchanan is an award-winning music therapist, speaker, author, and founder of JB Music Therapy, which delivers over 20,000 music therapy sessions annually across medical, educational, and wellness settings.

Connect with Jennifer

• @jbmusictherapy 
• @jenniferbuchananinc 
• https://jbmusictherapy.com/

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Final Thought

“Continue advocating for belonging because you are becoming something so beautiful.” — Jennifer Buchanan

Remember to Live with Intention and Embrace the Journey. 

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this final episode of our series with estate planning lawyer and disability advocate Gordon VanderLeek and disability advocate Annie VanderLeek, we explore a critical shift in understanding the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).

The DTC is often misunderstood as “just a tax credit.” But as Gordon and Annie explain, its real value lies in what it unlocks.

This episode reframes the DTC as a gateway benefit—a foundational qualification that opens access to essential federal supports for individuals with disabilities.

Key Takeaways:

- The DTC is not about taxes—it’s about access.
Even if your child earns little or no income, qualifying for the DTC can unlock life-changing programs.

- Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP):
Eligibility for the DTC is required to open an RDSP—one of the most powerful long-term financial tools available. With government grants and bonds of up to $90,000, this plan can grow into a substantial financial safety net for your child’s future.

- Canada Disability Benefit (CDB):
A newer federal support providing additional monthly income. Again, DTC eligibility is a key requirement.

- Additional supports:
Access to retroactive tax refunds, the Child Disability Benefit, and stronger positioning when applying for provincial programs.

- Provincial implications (e.g., AISH in Alberta):
In some cases, applying for the DTC is becoming mandatory to maintain or qualify for provincial supports.

When Applications Are Denied:

- Many applications fail due to incomplete or unclear information.

- Strong applications rely on storytelling backed by documentation (medical reports, assessments, IPPs).

- The key is clearly demonstrating how the disability impacts daily living, not just diagnosis.

- One of the hardest parts of the application process is being honest about your child’s challenges.

- Parents often provide extensive support behind the scenes—support that masks the true level of disability. For the DTC, it’s essential to describe what life would look like without that support.

System Challenges & Needed Improvements:

- Lengthy, complex applications

- Limited time and support for medical professionals completing forms 

- Long wait times and administrative barriers

- A system that may exclude many who still need support

Final Words of Advice:

- Apply—even if you’re unsure

The DTC is a doorway to your child’s long-term financial security.

“Live with iIntention - Embrace the Journey.”

Connect with the VanderLeeks

·       Website: vanderleeklaw.ca

·       Disability Advocacy Services: disabilityadvocates.ca

·       https://facebook.com/vanderleeklaw

·       https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanderleeklaw

·       https://www.instagram.com/vanderleek_law/

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

What if the homes we build today are the very thing limiting our independence tomorrow?

In this eye-opening episode, Valerie sits down with builder and entrepreneur Adam Arsenault to explore the critical gaps in accessible housing—and why so many homes still aren’t designed for real life across the lifespan.

Adam has always been interested in building. He started at the beginning with how to read a red tape measure to studying every trade in the industry. After a decade of learning, he decided to turn his passion for building into a business. 

Adam shares his journey into accessible construction, inspired by both industry experience and personal experience with family. After witnessing firsthand how traditional homes fail people as they age or face mobility challenges, he set out to challenge the status quo and create better solutions.

Together, Valerie and Adam unpack:

• Why accessibility is still not the standard in home building
• The surprising role basements play in limiting accessibility
• The concept of level-entry, no-step homes and why they matter
• The stigma and mindset barriers that prevent proactive planning
• The pros and cons of renovating vs. building new
• Why “one-size-fits-all” (universal design) often falls short
• How ADUs (Additional Dwelling Units) can create independence while keeping families connected

Adam also introduces innovative approaches like building without basements, incorporating future-ready features like residential elevators, and designing homes that are both functional and beautiful—without looking “accessible.”

Valerie brings her lived experience as a parent and former physiotherapist, emphasizing the importance of planning early and thinking long-term—especially for families raising children with disabilities.

Key Takeaway:
Accessible housing isn’t just for “someone else.” It’s for all of us—if we’re willing to think ahead.

Whether you’re considering renovations, building a forever home, or simply starting the conversation, this episode will expand your perspective on what’s possible.

Connect with Adam:
Website: redpladhomes.com
Instagram & Facebook: Red Plaid Developments

Valerie’s Reminder:
Start planning early. The best outcomes come from informed, proactive decisions—not reactive ones.

Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey.

Connect with Adam

www.redplaidhomes.com

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode Ron shares his perspective: accessible, universal, and inclusive design isn’t specialized—it’s simply good design. But when designing for neurodivergence, the focus shifts toward creating calm, choice, and sensory-aware environments that support regulation and well-being.

Calm is Foundational
Designing for neurodivergent individuals often means reducing overstimulation. This includes thoughtful choices around color, lighting, acoustics, and layout to create a soothing, predictable environment.

Wayfinding Matters More Than You Think
Simple navigation within a home can significantly impact comfort and independence. Subtle visual cues—like consistent flooring and strategic use of color—can either support or hinder movement.

Choice = Dignity and Control
Ron emphasizes that the most important design principle is choice. When individuals can move freely and make decisions within their environment, it enhances autonomy, reduces anxiety, and improves quality of life.

Sensory Design is Critical

- Lighting: Opt for dimmable, low-flicker LED lighting with soft, diffused tones

- Acoustics: Use insulation and acoustic panels to minimize noise

- Materials: Choose matte finishes to reduce glare and sensory overload

- Temperature: Ensure consistent, comfortable climate control

These elements don’t just benefit neurodivergent individuals—they improve the experience for everyone.

Space Variety Supports Regulation
Incorporating a mix of open, social areas and smaller, cozy spaces allows individuals to choose environments that match their sensory needs. Dedicated sensory rooms can also offer a safe place to decompress.

Every Individual is Different
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Designing for neurodivergence requires listening, curiosity, and collaboration with families and caregivers who understand the individual best.

Parents Are Powerful Designers
Families often develop incredible, intuitive solutions tailored to their child’s needs. Trust your instincts, get creative, and don’t be afraid to challenge limitations.

Plan for the Future
Design not just for today, but for what your child may need years from now. Early, proactive planning creates more sustainable and supportive living environments.

Advocate and Stay Curious
If someone says something “can’t be done,” dig deeper. Innovation often comes from questioning assumptions and seeking better solutions.

Final Thought:
You are the expert on your child. When you combine your insight with thoughtful design, you can create a home that supports not just survival—but true comfort, independence, and thriving.

Check out Part 1 in Episode 23!

Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey🎒

Connect with Ron

Google Ron Wickman Architect online to visit his website and explore his publications on accessible housing.

Check our Ron’s resources…👇🏽

https://www.ronwickmanarchitect.ca/resources

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Valerie continues her conversation with estate planning lawyer Gordon VanderLeek and disability advocate Annie VanderLeek about an important support available to Canadian families raising children with disabilities: the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).

Gordon is the founder of VanderLeek Law, and Annie leads the firm’s Disability Advocates division, helping families navigate disability-related programs and supports.

Together they explain what the DTC is, how eligibility is determined, and why this credit can be much more significant than a simple tax reduction.

What is the Disability Tax Credit?

The DTC is a federal program administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. While it can reduce income tax, it also acts as an important gateway to other federal disability supports.

Eligibility is not based on diagnosis alone. Instead, the CRA evaluates how a disability affects a person’s daily functioning.

To qualify, a person must be:

- Markedly restricted in one area of daily living, or

- Significantly restricted in multiple areas

Areas assessed may include walking, hearing, eliminating, mental functioning, and life-sustaining therapy.

Why Documentation Matters

Strong documentation is critical when applying. Helpful records may include:

- Medical and psychological assessments

- School reports or IPPs/IEPs

- Therapy reports

- Historical diagnoses

As Annie emphasizes, keeping documentation helps families clearly demonstrate the real-life impact of a disability.

Challenges in the Application Process

The DTC application requires a medical professional to complete part of the form. Challenges can arise when doctors:

- Do not know the individual well

- Have limited time to complete forms

- Are unfamiliar with certain disabilities

Working with professionals who understand the complexity of disability can make a significant difference.

Retroactive Benefits

One powerful aspect of the DTC is that approval can be retroactive for up to 10 years, depending on when the disability began. This can result in meaningful tax refunds that help offset the additional costs families often face.

Final Advice

Annie’s biggest recommendation for families:

Keep your documentation.
Medical reports, school records, and assessments may become essential when applying for disability supports.

This episode is part of a continuing series exploring financial and legal planning for families raising children with disabilities.

Live with intention - Embrace the journey.

Connect with the VanderLeeks

- Website: vanderleeklaw.ca

- Disability Advocacy Services: disabilityadvocates.ca

· https://facebook.com/vanderleeklaw

· https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanderleeklaw

· https://www.instagram.com/vanderleek_law/

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Valerie sits down with architect, author, and accessibility advocate Ron Wickman to explore what it truly means to design homes that support independence, dignity, and lifelong connection.

Ron brings over 30 years of experience in accessible architecture—and a deeply personal perspective. His father became paraplegic in 1964 at just 23 years old and was told he would likely live in an institution and never work again. Instead, he became a city councillor in Edmonton and later a Member of the Legislative Assembly, advocating for change across Alberta.

Growing up immersed in disability advocacy shaped Ron’s professional mission: transforming accessible design from a “special feature” into the cultural norm.

We Discuss:

How Lived Experience Shapes Design

Ron shares how navigating the world alongside his father exposed the barriers embedded in the built environment—from backdoor restaurant entrances to inaccessible homes—and how those experiences led him to architecture instead of politics.

What “Accessible Design” Really Means

Ron clarifies the differences between:

• Accessible Design
• Universal Design
• Inclusive Design
• Barrier-Free Design
• Visitability

The Power of Visitability

Inspired by disability advocate Eleanor Smith, the concept of visitability ensures that every home has:

1. A no-step entrance
2. Wider doorways
3. A main floor bathroom accessible to wheelchair users

These features benefit everyone.

The 3 Critical Features of a Forever Home

If you are searching for or building a home that can be modified for accessibility, Ron recommends focusing on:

Ground-to-Front-Door Relationship

Can someone enter without steps?
If not, what modifications (ramps, lifts) would be required?

Vertical Circulation

If it’s not a bungalow, is there room for:

• A stair lift?
• A vertical platform lift?
• An elevator?

Bathroom Size & Layout

Older homes often have bathrooms that are too small to modify without major structural changes. Adequate space from the beginning makes aging in place—and caregiving—significantly easier.

Ron advocates for “wet rooms”—fully waterproofed bathrooms with sloped floors and open shower areas.

Shifting the Cultural Mindset

One of the biggest barriers to accessible housing isn’t cost—it’s perception.

Make accessibility the norm—not the exception.

Coming Next

Ron will return to discuss his work designing homes for the neurodivergent population—an area requiring even more nuanced, individualized planning.

Connect with Ron

Google Ron Wickman Architect online to visit his website and explore his publications on accessible housing.

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

If this episode encouraged or informed you, please share it with another parent navigating the forever home journey.

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/