Glaucoma is an eye disease that can gradually cause blindness if not treated properly. Generally, people are unaware of the severity of the problem until it reaches a very advanced stage. Glaucoma has no cure, and it is not possible to recover lost vision. It is estimated that 2.2 million Americans have glaucoma, and more than 120,000 people go blind due to it, making it the second leading cause of blindness in the world. Some people with glaucoma have low vision, which means they may have problems performing their daily activities. The purpose of this project is to provide people with glaucoma with the possibility of leading an independent life by offering them a home that facilitates their autonomy with safety and comfort, addressing their present and future needs. Case studies emphasize the importance of understanding the daily routines and functional needs of visually impaired individuals to create a safe and accessible living environment. It is necessary to implement a natural process of spatial adjustment that allows individuals to navigate their homes with ease by considering their lighting needs and personal preferences. One important design strategy is to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and fully functional for visually impaired residents. The floor plan specifically needs to address their needs by ensuring each space is safe and integrated, for example, the adjacency of the rooms that the person usually needs. Textured walls will serve as a tactile guide for facilitating navigation around the house, and contrasting colors will help differentiate rooms. Additionally, layered lighting, including natural light, will enhance the user’s daily activities. In conclusion, this design will provide clean lines, warm colors, and different textures that create contrast, along with functional furniture that will create a joyful and safe place for visually impaired people.
Designing Accessible Homes for Individuals with Glaucoma: Enhancing Independence and Safety
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Student Abstract Submission