Universal Design is for Everyone
What does quality of life mean to you? Comfort immediately comes to mind. What about safety, independence, and convenience? These attributes typically get addressed with older adults who want to continue living in their home as they age, but are often overlooked in the design of most homes.
Being able to move freely and perform daily tasks may not be your concern at the moment. So, I will play devil’s advocate by suggesting that you have wrestled with a door with your hands full, tripped over a threshold or an unnecessary level change between rooms, and stubbed your toe while looking for a light switch at least once in your life. And let’s not forget about accidental injuries that can make you feel like you’re navigating an obstacle course in your own house when trying to use a bathroom. As a former insurance broker, I can’t help but dig up some stats to drive my point home: according to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 57.5 million people in the US visited a physician for injuries in 2018. Two days ago I hurt my index finger (don’t ask) and had to get stitches and a splint. I can still type, luckily, but I can’t turn a door knob… This is very frustrating, especially when my other hand is busy. If more doors had lever handles, life would have been much easier for all of us, no matter the circumstances. See what I’m getting at?
User-friendly controls is one of the many features of human-centered design (also known as Universal Design) that brings people’s needs into the forefront to create spaces that are accessible and comfortable for everyone regardless of their age, height, and ability level. Among others is no-threshold entry, wider hallways and doorways, non-slip surfaces, thoughtful lighting and lighting controls, and functional layout. When I work with clients, I automatically incorporate those design solutions into their projects to make using the space seamless, convenient, and enjoyable no matter what life brings. I make it look hella good too, of course!
If you’d like to learn more about how your home can serve you and your loved ones better, contact me to schedule a consultation!