Accessibility, both of public buildings and in the availability of accessible homes and apartments, is essential to independence for people with MS.

Because many people with MS have disabilities that limit their mobility and require use of ambulatory aids, scooters and/or wheelchairs, a great deal of housing and buildings in the community are not accessible or easy to use.

For example, buildings and homes that require going up and down stairs often mean that substantial parts of the house or building cannot be used by a person in a wheelchair. A basic need for people with MS is for housing
and buildings that address their special concerns and provide access to services they need and activities they desire.

10.1. Housing

10.1.1. People with MS must have access to basic adaptations of their homes, to enable them to reside in the community as long as possible. Ref 3,8,38,42,47,124,165,191

10.1.2. People with MS must not be restricted from loans, grants, or other forms of financial assistance for making home adaptations because of their disease. Ref 3,8,38

10.1.3. A significant proportion of all new housing must be accessible from initial design and construction and not require adaptations to achieve accessibility for people with MS. Ref 3,8,38,191

10.2. Accessibility of Buildings in the Community

10.2.1. Buildings in the community, especially government offices and educational settings, must be accessible to people with MS.Ref 8,47,57

10.2.2. New public buildings must be designed and built for accessibility to people with MS and other disabilities. Ref 3,8,57