The Most Important Part of Universal Design is “You”

Think ahead to your own retirement years. Do you see yourself relocating from your comfortable home and familiar surroundings into an assisted living facility or extended care home?

Let’s face it. Retirement homes are for old people—not you. You plan to maintain your independence in your preferred place of residence as long as you possibly can. And you’re not alone.

Today the U.S. population is living longer, and though we’re aging more gracefully than past generations, more and more of us are sticking around to face the challenges that come with extended life spans. As Boomers cross the threshold into their golden years, they want that threshold to still lead into their own beloved homes—not a facility for the aging.

That’s where Universal Design comes in.

At first blush, Universal Design sounds like an impossibly lofty concept, something akin to “one world order” and “global economy.” Ironically, Universal Design is, in its core, an extremely individualized idea.

Universal Design is the guiding principle in the creation of usable, accessible products and environments, no matter a person’s age or ability. Though the idea is to make things and places viable for everyone, designers must apply Universal Design in a very thoughtful, personal way. Wide aisles for wheelchairs, foot pedals for water fountains, rubberized grips for utensils…you get the picture.

OK, so now you know the concept of Universal Design. It’s a great idea—clearly in keeping with ADA standards set forth over 16 years ago. It’s a wonderful investment for public spaces. So what does it have to do with your ever-approaching retirement years and your desire to avoid the proverbial ‘old folks’ home?’

Universal Design has everything to do with your ability to remain in your own home for the long haul. Think ahead… Counter heights, pathway clearances, surfacing materials, adjustable seating—all these elements must be designed universally in a home, just as they would in a public facility, if you are to be able to stay put and stay independent.

Certainly, the selection of flooring and surfacing materials plays a big part in the creation of a universally designed home or facility. Tile is an important, viable choice to meet the needs of an aging populace. It’s easy to keep clean, won’t trap allergens and allows for mobility for wheels on a wheelchair or the scuffle of slippered feet accompanied by a walker.

That’s why, Universal Design, well established in the world of commercial construction, is on the upswing in the residential market as well. It’s matter of logistics and smart investing. As 40 or 50-somethings looks to remodel or build their homes, why not project ahead, building in smart accommodations for the long term? More and more people are deciding it’s better to make choices for the future in the present, while there’re funds and stamina to handle the remodel or new construction project.

While you’re building a nest egg for the future, build a nest for the future as well. Make your next new construction or remodeling project a Universal Design project. It’s the right thing to do for you.