Universal Design and Age in Place

Jun 16 2009 8:08AM | Permalink | Email this | Comments (0) |
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By Patricia Nunan

It’s been a busy month with everyone trying to get in the last programs of the season and projects done before winding down for the summer. Business seems to be picking up just a bit. People are interested in doing projects again although they are scaled back considerably or only because they "have to do something soon before…"

Last week I attended my NARI chapter meeting and we had very good attendance. Many were guests eager to check it out. I met a fellow member who I have known for years and we were discussing how I could incorporate his product line into a universal design project to showcase their product. He did mention that he had been unable to attend my last workshop on understanding Universal Design and Aging in Place. This member also brought a guest with him and was eager to explain what I do and what Universal Design is to his guest. I was surprised at the answer he gave.

He explained to his friend that Universal Design was changing things in the home about every 10 years or so to meet the changing needs of the family or someone with a disability. Well I guess every remodeler would like that definition. It would definitely keep them in business. However what did strike me is that this person has been in the remodeling and building profession for years and has heard many people speak about Universal Design and still really didn’t understand what it is.

To explain this so that he better understood it as relates to remodeling, I told him and his friend to look around at a few things in the showroom we were at. We saw lever door handles, a no step entrance into the building, light switches at 48" above the floor, multi level counters in the kitchen, faucets that are simple to use, appliances placed within easy reach – no microwaves over the stove!

For a many people, young or old, tall or short, or someone with a disability, when incorporating these features and more, like a first floor bathroom and bedroom in a remodeling or building project it makes any home easier to live in. Finally he said "its really common sense stuff isn’t it." Yes it is and if only these common sense items were incorporated into more projects there would be more homes that people would be able to enjoy for many years to come.

So with that I have invited him and his friend to the next workshop on Universal Design and Aging in Place this fall. This summer, along with working on your business, make it a point to schedule time to stay informed and keep educated. Think positive. Business will be picking up.