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Universal design is about creating a safe home for everyone, regardless of age, size, or ability. According to AARP, universal design features and products make a home safer and more comfortable for a wide range of people. Universal design is meant to fit everyone and every lifestyle including:

• Families with young children
• Seniors who want to stay in their home as they grow older
• People who are taller or shorter than average
• People who have limited mobility or dexterity
• People with a permanent or temporary disability.

Universal Design Features Checklist

Universal design concepts are present in all of Home Evolution's modifications. These concepts call for all living environments to be accessible and usable by all people regardless of their age or physical ability level. In addition to making your home more adaptable to your needs, these modifications are seamlessly integrated into the design of your home. Having universal design features and products in a home prevents accidents, increases comfort and safety, and enhances residents' independence.

Essential universal design features include:

• At least one no-step entry to the house either through the front, back, or garage door.
• Entryway doors that are at least 32 inches wide and interior doors at least 30 inches wide to allow for ample room to pass through.
• Light controls, electrical outlets, and thermostats that are easily reachable for a person in a wheelchair.
• A 3-foot-wide corridor, free of hazards and steps that connects all rooms on the main floor.
• A bedroom, kitchen, entertainment area, and a full bathroom, with plenty of space for maneuverability, on the main floor.
• Reinforced bathroom walls for the option of adding grab bars.
• Lever-style door handles and faucets that don’t require grasping or twisting to operate.

Additionally, there are many other universal design features and products that many people, especially those over 50, like and incorporate into their homes. They include:

• Raised front loading clothes washer, dryer, and dishwasher.
• Side-by-side refrigerator.
• Easy access kitchen storage (pull-out shelves, adjustable height cupboards, lazy susans).
• Low or no-threshold stall shower with built-in bench or seat.
• Non-slip floors, bathtubs, and showers.
• Raised, comfort-level toilets.
• Multi-level kitchen countertops with open space underneath so one can work while seated.
• Windows that require minimal effort to open and close.
• Covered entryway or porch to protect you from rain and snow.
• Rocker-style light switches.
• Task lighting directed to a specific surface or area that provides illumination for specific tasks.
• Easy to grasp cabinet knobs or pulls.
  

Learn more about the concepts of Universal Design.

Now, for a limited time, Home Evolutions is offering a free Quality of Life and Home Safety Checklist. Please fill out the information on this form to receive your free 63 point quality of life and home safety checklist. After submitting the form, a PDF of the checklist will be emailed to you.