A well-designed home, or one that has been modified to to incorporate universal design principles and accommodate the needs of residents of all ages and abilities, can promote independence and the satisfaction of being able to stay in control — and in your home — as you age.

Essential universal design features include:

• At least one no-step entry into the house, either through the front, back or garage door.
• Entryway doors that are 36 inches wide, interior doors with widths of 34 to 36 inches, and passageways measuring 42 inches wide.
• Light controls, electrical outlets and thermostats that are easily reachable for a person in a seated position.
• A three-foot wide corridor free of hazards and steps that connects all rooms on the main floor.
• Lever-style door handles and faucets that don’t require grasping or twisting to operate.
• A bedroom, kitchen, entertainment area and a full bathroom (with plenty of space for maneuverability) on one level of the home.
• Reinforced bathroom walls that allow for the addition of grab bars.
  

Other popular features:

• Raised, front-loading clothes washers and dryers.
• Side-by-side refrigerators.
• Easy-access kitchen storage (including pull-out shelves, adjustable height cupboards, lazy Susan turntables).
• Low or no-threshold stall showers with a built-in bench or seat.
• Non-slip floors, including in the bathtub or shower.
• Raised, comfort-level toilets.
• Multi-level kitchen countertops with open space beneath so a person can work while seated.
• Windows that require minimal effort to open and close.
• Covered entryways or porches for protection from rain and snow.
• Rocker-style light switches.
• Task lighting directed to a specific surface or location that will benefit from better illumination.
• Easy-to-grasp cabinet knobs or pulls.

See also: Universal design in the kitchen. >>