Older Americans Underscore the Importance of Universal Design in Housing

Universal design in housing involves implementing accessible features in homes that promote functionality regardless of age, size or ability. New AARP research finds that most Americans 50 and older believe that universal design is important to ensure accommodation and quality of life for people of all ages and abilities.  

Universal design is essential for older Americans 

Most older adults (68%) say that the presence of universal design features in homes is important. Universal design features spaces that work well simultaneously for children, parents, grandparents and individuals using wheelchairs. For most universal design features, major changes are not needed periodically to accommodate new physical limitations. Accordingly, 59% agree that universal design features should be standard in newly built homes, while only 15% disagree.  

Safety and access are priorities 

When asked which universal design features they deem important, 67% of older Americans cite wider doorways and hallways, followed by nonslip flooring (64%), step-free showers (57%) and grab bars and handrails (55%). 

Implications 

With more than half of older adults agreeing that universal design features should come standard in newly constructed homes, these features are slowly becoming baseline consumer expectations rather than simply an upgrade or add-on. As builders look to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, they must recognize that safety features are of the utmost concern for older Americans. Currently, however, only 35% say that they are likely to purchase or rent a home that includes universal design features. Exposure strategies such as showcasing universal design features in model homes might allow older adults to more thoroughly understand the benefits and capabilities of universal design. 

Methodology 

Findings are based on a survey of 1,347 Americans 50 and older, conducted through the Foresight 50+ Consumer Omnibus survey conducted by NORC for AARP. Data were collected using a mixed-mode approach, with 90% of interviews conducted online and 10% conducted by phone. Interviews were conducted from August 15 to 18, 2025, and responses were weighted to reflect Current Population Survey (CPS) benchmarks including gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, region and AARP membership.

For more information, please contact Joanne Binette at jbinette@aarp.org. For media inquiries, contact External Relations at media@aarp.org.