We hear all the time about the “graying” of America, as Baby Boomers get set to retire. And these Baby Boomers, for the most part, plan to stay put in their own homes. In fact, a recent AARP survey examining the opinions of Americans over the age of 45 on current and future housing situations found that the majority plans to stay in their current residence for as long as possible.

Combine this information with the Center for Disease Control’s findings that falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among people 65 years and older and 60% of these fatal falls happen at home, and it is no wonder that there is a growing trend among homebuilders and remodelers to create “universal design” living spaces.

Universal design homes need to accommodate occupants with decreased health, vision, mobility, hearing, dexterity and income. There are a number of ways that new houses can be designed, or existing houses can be remodeled, to make life easier for people with such limitations, whether they be elderly or a teenager with a ski injury. And the bonus is that such modifications usually make the home more comfortable for everyone. The concept of universal design works for all.

Most issues related to universal design fit into one of three categories: convenience, safety/health, and economy. Designs for convenience include anything that makes life easier, such as automatic garage door openers, lighted switches, lever handles for doors and faucets, wheelchair ramps, home elevators and stair lifts, wider halls and doors, intercom systems, taller toilets, openings without raised thresholds (including shower stalls), among many others.

Safety considerations include adjusting water temperature to avoid scalding injuries, good lighting, installation of smoke detectors, placement of handrails and grab-bars, removal of slippery throw rugs and generally reducing clutter and obstacles.
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