Universal Design

5 TIPS FOR A UNIVERSAL DESIGN HOME

1. Adapt main floor of the home for one level living: No-step entry, bathroom and bedroom / Kitchen and laundry on main floor
2. Widen doorways to 36″ w/ offset hinges on doors: Doorways are often too narrow for walkers and wheelchairs (or someone carrying packages) so widening them is a plus for all
3. Install hand-held shower heads and grab bars: Hand-held shower heads and grab bars are some of the least expensive changes you can make and are a great help to those with balance problems
4. Use lever handles on doors and plumbing fixtures: Hand strength can be an issue with all ages–using a simple lever eliminates the struggle with operating doorknobs and faucets
5. Use “comfort height” toilets: Many people suffer from osteoporosis, arthritis, or temporary injuries and find it hard to stand up from a normal height toilet–a higher toilet (or toilet chair that fits over the existing toilet) helps fix  this challenge

For More Universal Design Possibilities See:

Universal Design Living Laboratory

The Green Mountain Ranch

European Universal Design

Living with Beautiful Things

While many universal design features are simple and don’t require great expense, others can be costly and require experienced professionals. When in doubt always consult an architect or contractor specializing in Universal/aging-in-place design.

See

A Case for Universal Design

10 Myths About Universal Design by Rosemarie Rossetti PhD

Page: 1 2 3 4