For accessibility, what should be the ideal height for items within reach of an adult?

The ideal height for items within reach of an adult aligns with guidelines for accessible design, typically outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other accessibility standards.

For adults, the recommended range for accessible reach is generally between 15 inches to 48 inches above the floor. However, when considering items that need to be within a standing reach for an average adult, the upper limit of this range is typically around 48 inches for those who may rely on reaching overhead.

While options specifying heights of 60 inches and above may seem to encompass reach, they exceed standard recommendations for what is effectively accessible, especially for individuals utilizing assistive devices or those who may have a limited reach.

Therefore, the height of 68-72 inches exceeds these guidelines, which is critical to consider when designing spaces for universal access. Instead, the height for accessible items should prioritize being easily reachable without the need for excessive stretching or assistance.

The ideal height is typically suggested to ensure practicality and usability for a diverse range of users, promoting an inclusive environment.