universal design- it's for everybody
a practical guide to creating your
ultimate dream home
photo courtesy of Daryl Rantis Architect
universal design
Today bring function, comfort and beauty home.
Ready, willing, and able to create your ultimate dream home? Then consider the "Designed for All” or “Inclusive" concept. Incorporating age-friendly UP-FITS (see below) can make your dwelling-place safer and more accessible. Here's how to make dwelling spaces more convenient for EVERYONE who lives there or visits.
Inclusive Design IS Designed for All
“Design for All” or “Inclusive Design,” is a philosophy that can be applied to policy, design and other practices to make products, environments and systems function better for a wider range of people. It developed in response to the diversity of human populations, their abilities and their needs.” - The Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA Center)
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A PUBLICATION OF THE  |
Research found new perspectives on creating a truly comfortable and accessible home. This simply makes sense to over 80% of the Post50 People who told us that homeowners can create a "feathered nest" AND save money. eBooklet
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More and more you are hearing people talking about "aging-in-place." What's that all about? And can a feathered nest be possible? Turns out it is a catch phrase that covers any number of items up for discussion around topics such as home automation that leading edge boomers and older adults find interesting.
At the root of the conversation is the idea of quality and equality - regardless of age or physical ability.
It seems apparent that as time moves on, and older adults make choices
for living, the tremendous buying power we possess, actually will
impact and change outmoded aging stereotypes. We can gain strength in a
broader sense and counter ageism along the way. Planning
ahead is a big part of the discussion.
Research found not only a new vision of aging, but new perspectives that focus on creating a comfy home. This simply makes sense to over 80% of "senior citizens"- who told us that homeowners can save money. By comparison, assisted living can exceed the cost of aging-in-place.
How to be Comfortable and Cost-Wise
universal design
As we reviewed in an earlier segment, the
cost of
assisted living is at or well above $40K+ per year. Recognizing
this, and
the potential impact on life post-50, we created a survey for our
readers to see how post-50 people measured the value of universal
design. Interestingly, survey respondents highlighted the differences
between the "unassisted living" experience and the "assisted living" one.Here are the results of the survey.
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UP-Fit
$1,500. Typical assisted living costs $42,000.++ |
"When you incorporate these elements throughout a home,
accessibility for Everybody can become a non-issue. "
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PRACTICAL ARTS AT HOME With the cost of
assisted living at or above $40K year, how does "Self Assisted Living" compare to the annual expenses outside your own home? |
5 UNIVERSAL DESIGN UP-FITS
1. Electrical, Lighting, Safety and Security- home automation
Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms, light switches, thermostats and other environmental controls placed in accessible locations no higher than 48 inches from floor.
Clear access space of 30 inches by 48 inches in front of switches and controls, rocker or touch light switches, high-tech security/intercom system that can be monitored, with the heating, air conditioning and lighting, from any TV in the house, pre-programmed thermostats.
Of course, we love our iPod -- and here at The Sage Companion Project we imagine you will appreciate a home that is wired for computers.
2. Flooring - Smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces both interior and exterior (we like bamboo and recycled hardwoods.)
3. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning -(HVAC)
Who would not appreciate an HVAC system that is designed so that filters are easily accessible? Look for energy efficient HVAC units. Select windows that can be opened for cross ventilation, and plenty of fresh air.
4. Energy Efficient Home Features
In-line framing with 2 by 6 studs spaced 24-inch on center.
Air-barrier installation and sealing of duct work with mastic.
Reduced-size air conditioning units with gas furnaces.
Mechanical fresh air ventilation, installation of air returns in all bedrooms and use of carbon monoxide detectors.
Energy efficient windows with Low-E glass.
5. Reduced Maintenance/Convenience Features- Inside and Out
Easy to clean surfaces
Central vacuum
Built-in pet feeding system
Built-in recycling system
Video phones
Intercom system Low-maintenance exterior (vinyl, brick)
Low-maintenance shrubs and plants
Deck, patio or balcony surfaces are no more than ½ inch below interior floor level if made of wood.
A FEW MORE IDEAS
Other ideas may be to add or plan for a separate apartment for rental income or future caregiver. A Flex space or room that can used as a nursery or playroom when the children are young and as a home office later; if combined with a full bath, this room could also be used for a caregiver if necessary.
Test Your Know-How
THE UNIVERSAL DESIGN QUIZ
HERE
THIS PAGE LINKS TO
universal design aging in place
reVision aging at home cost of living at home
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aging-in-place, age in place
