Livable Lesson: Universal Design

A home that was bulit or remodeled using universal design principles includes features and products that work well for people of all ages and abilities.  

Hosted by Richard Duncan, the executive director of the RL Mace Universal Design Institute, the Universal Design Video Series explains how and why it's both practical and cost-effective to design a house or apartment with such features as step-free entrances, wide doorways, and easy-access storage and appliances.

Since universal design features and products are also attractive, a home can be smartly equipped for its occupants' current and future needs.

Lesson 1: How to Create Better Home Environments

Universal design expert Richard Duncan discusses some of the problems people face when trying to age in place and explains how universal design features and products can make houses and apartments more age-friendly and livable for people of all ages.

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Lesson 2: Basics of Universal and Age-Friendly Design

See the universal design features and products that can be included in a new or renovated home. 

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Lesson 3: Benefits of Universal and Age-Friendly Homes

Learn about the advantages of universal design for both individuals and communities — and the obstacles that are preventing the wider creation universally-designed homes.

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Related Links

• A-Z Topics: Housing
  
• 5 Questions for Richard Duncan About Universal Design
• More Livable Lesson Videos

_{The videos on this page were created by an external organization so might not reflect AARP’s public policies or advocacy positions, which can be found in the AARP Policy Book.}  

_{Page published November 2023}