Articles
Aging-in-Place with Universal
and Adaptable Design
Homes That Grow Gracefully With You
By Thomas Hewitt, CAPS
As we enter into retirement, we begin to face some
very difficult questions about the future of our families and
our ability to maintain our independence through the retirement
years. We have a strong desire to retain our autonomy as long
as possible and not rely on family members for assistance with
daily living. Universal and adaptable design concepts optimize
space in our homes to accommodate a wide range of individuals
with varying physical abilities, allow people to stay in their
homes longer, and keep families together.
Quick Facts…
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One-quarter of the U.S. population is over age 50.
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From 2000 to 2030 the over 65 population will double.
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By 2030, the population of older people will likely
increase to over 69 million persons.
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By 2050, the U.S. will account for 79 million people
over age 65.
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The net worth of seniors is five times greater than
the average net worth of all U.S. citizens
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What is Aging-in-Place?
Aging-in-place means living in your home safely, comfortably,
and independently, regardless of age or ability level. It allows
you to continue living in a familiar environment throughout
your maturing years. Aging-in-place is the ability to remain
in your home for a lifetime.
What is universal and adaptable design?
Ron Mace, founder and program director of the Center for Universal
Design, defines universal design as "the design of products
and environments to be useable by all people, to the greatest
extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized
design". For our purposes, we will limit the term "universal
design" as it applies to home design and related products.
Adaptable design, on the other hand, allows the
easy modification of a space to accommodate a specific need.
Where universal design benefits everyone regardless of ability,
adaptable design provides access to spaces or products through
alteration or the addition of an assistive device that bridges
an existing barrier to its use. Adaptable design is defined
by ANSI A117.1 (American National Standards Institute) as, "the
ability of certain building elements, such as kitchen counters,
sinks, and grab bars, to be added to, raised, lowered, or otherwise
altered so as to accommodate the needs of either persons with
or without disabilities, or to accommodate the needs of persons
with different types or degrees of disability".
The differences between universal and adaptable
design may be obscure at times. One could consider the installation
of grab bars in a shower to be universal as anyone can use the
bar for balance or safety. But the installation of the backing
(structural support) for grab bars may be considered adaptable
if the intent is to install the bars at a future time when needed
to provide access to the use of the shower by a person with
a disability. It is this obscurity that points to the fact that
universal and adaptable design is not a matter of listing items
as features; rather, it is a philosophy of design. The philosophy
of universal design is summarized by the Principles of Universal
Design developed by the Center for Universal Design (see Sidebar).
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THE PRINCIPLES OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN
Copyright 1997 NC State University
The Center for Universal Design
PRINCIPLE ONE: Equitable Use
The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse
abilities.
PRINCIPLE TWO: Flexibility in Use
The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences
and abilities.
PRINCIPLE THREE: Simple and Intuitive Use
Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the
user's experience, knowledge, language skills, or current
concentration level.
PRINCIPLE FOUR: Perceptible Information
The design communicates necessary information effectively
to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's
sensory abilities.
PRINCIPLE FIVE: Tolerance for Error
The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences
of accidental or unintended actions.
PRINCIPLE SIX: Low Physical Effort
The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with
a minimum of fatigue.
PRINCIPLE SEVEN: Size and Space for Approach and Use
Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach,
manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture,
or mobility.
"The Principles of Universal Design
were conceived and developed by The Center for Universal
Design at North Carolina State University. Use or application
of the Principles in any form by an individual or organization
is separate and distinct from the Principles and does not
constitute or imply acceptance or endorsement by The Center
for Universal Design of the use or application."
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What are some applications of universal and adaptable
design?
Universal design encompasses a wide scope of home design and modification
extending from landscaping and low maintenance exterior and interior
finishes to specific features that enhance the use and safety
of bathrooms and kitchens. The use of energy efficient building
materials and solar design, for example, may be considered universal
design criteria because it benefits everyone who uses it.
Some of the major areas we look at, from the perspective
of universal design, are entrances and pathways leading to entrances,
overall interior accessible features, kitchens, bathrooms, and
sleeping areas. Let's take each of these individually and look
at ways that we can improve the usability of each.
Entrances and pathways
One of the first things to consider in universal design is how
to eliminate barriers to access from a vehicle drop-off point
to an accessible entrance. To make a pathway usable for a person
using a wheelchair or other assistive device, we need to limit
the slope of the walkway to a maximum change of 1 foot for every
20 feet up or down to the entry. We prefer to use earth berms,
bridges or retaining walls instead of front ramps that may suggest
a vulnerable resident. Anyone moving heavy furniture in or out
of the home will love this feature!
The entry itself has many facets to look at in
terms of accessibility. These items include providing weather
shelter, a no-step entry with a threshold less than ½"
high, maneuvering space on both sides of the door, sidelights
or "peepholes" to view visitors, and adequate lighting
to operate locks and provide security.
Overall features of the home
Here, we are going to explore some universal design features
that aren't specific to any one room, but should be considered
as general applications.
Whether the home is designed for aging-in-place
or simply for visitability, we want to create easy access to
the main living areas and facilities. This can be accomplished
by providing a minimum clear opening of 32" on all doors
to accessible areas and a 40" minimum clear circulation
route through rooms and hallways. We also want to provide a
minimum of 18" beside the door latch for easy operation
for people using assistive devices. Lever handles allow use
with an elbow, forearm or wrist for people who have difficulty
gripping or twisting a doorknob.
Another consideration would be the placement of
electrical outlets, switches and other operable controls. Raised
outlets between 18" and 22" above the floor falls
within the range of use for a person in a seated position and
also aids people who have problems stooping over. Placing light
switches and other controls a maximum of 48" above the
floor allows their use from a seated position. Children also
have an easier time using these switches.
Safety in the home is another big consideration
addressed through universal design. Non-slip floor surfaces
will help avoid falls and aid in the use of walkers and wheelchairs.
Telephones installed in strategic locations, such as bedrooms
and bathrooms, will help summon assistance if needed. Also,
lowered window sill heights to a maximum of 36" high will
enhance the use of windows for egress in case of fire or other
emergency.
Kitchens
Kitchens are notorious in excluding their use for a variety
of people and there are many universal design "standards"
that apply to this area of the home. Even though the application
of universal criteria to the kitchen is typically design specific,
we will cover some of the more critical design choices.
We first want to be sure we have proper floor
space that is suitable for all users, including people who use
wheelchairs. Optimally, we would like to see a 5' clear turning
radius in the kitchen, but, as a minimum, we want to provide
a 30" x 48" approach in front of all appliances. We
also want to provide knee space under the sink and cooktop,
as well as a lowered counter (also with knee space) at a work
area for a person in a seated position. Some adaptable criteria
may come into play here with removable base cabinets or doors
that swing out for roll-under access.
Continuous counters between work areas may be
a universal design consideration. An example would be having
a sink and cooktop on the same run of counter so that a heavy
object could slide between the two without having to pick it
up. Another idea might be to have a sprayer or faucet located
to fill coffee makers or pots without lifting.
The selection and placement of appliances need
to be considered for ease of use. Controls need to be placed
within the range of reach for persons in a seated position.
The maximum reach height of 48" for all kitchen controls
apply here. Forward reach over obstructions should also be considered,
but this is client specific and mathematical formulas are used
to determine forward reach ranges. Front mounted controls are
easy to use for everyone, but consideration needs to be taken
in terms of access to small children. Side-by-side refrigerators
are also accessible to everyone.
A raised dishwasher, as well as raised washer
/ dryer in the laundry room, improves its use for both people
using wheelchairs and those having problems stooping over to
load the machine. There is also a long list of cabinet features
that improve access, such as pull-out shelves, lazy susans,
and roll out waste containers. Adequate task lighting is also
a major consideration in the kitchen.
Bathrooms
Safety is the number one priority in the bathroom as it is the
room with the highest number of accidents in the home. Non-slip
surfaces are essential both inside and outside the tub / shower
area. As mentioned earlier, grab bars enhance the safety for
everyone, but are especially important to people who have an
increased risk of falling. They are also very important for
people who use wheelchairs to enable transfer to shower seats
and toilets. Pressure balanced / anti-scald valves are another
safety feature that benefits everyone.
Access for people using assistive devices is critical
in the bathroom. Curb-less showers allow people to roll-in or
avoid tripping over a curb at the shower pan. (This feature has
also spurred some very beautiful bathroom designs!) Dimensions
around toilets are critical for access and 30" x 48"
minimum approach area in front of all bathroom fixtures is needed.
(These clearances can overlap.)
There are many accessories available for shower
/ tub modifications that improve safety and convenience. Recessed
soap and shampoo ledges, various seats and benches, and adjustable
height / hand-held shower with slide bars, just to name a few.
Bedrooms
One of the important features we want to look for in the bedroom
is that there is adequate clearance for maneuvering around the
bed and proper clearances for emergency egress, either at a
door or a window with a lowered sill. Proper clearance should
be considered for adaptable devices, such as a Med-Pole (a stainless
steel assistive device) or Hoya lift. The doorways to accessible
areas, like the bathroom and closet, need to be a minimum of
32" wide as mentioned earlier. Adjustable shelves and clothes
rods in the closet are very helpful to accommodate a wide range
of reach.
Summary
Aging-in-Place means maintaining independence and control of
your life. Your environment plays a key role in achieving that
goal and steps should be taken to improve the usability, safety
and comfort of your home.
This begins with a comprehensive personal assessment
and home audit for independence that may be performed by a medical
professional or a trained aging-in-place specialist. With this
information, solutions for home modification can be developed.
Some of these modifications may be done yourself, such as using
brighter lighting and slip-free mats. Other modifications will
require a trained professional for widening doors and various
remodel projects in bathrooms and kitchens.
Whether you are considering remodeling or designing
a new home, look for professionals who have the experience to
accurately assess your needs and find the solutions that will
make your house a home for a lifetime. One resource for finding
qualified professionals is the National Association of Home
Builders (NAHB). They have created the Certified Aging-in-Place
Specialist (CAPS) program to help you identify industry professionals
with the skills and knowledge specific to home modifications
for aging-in-place.
Thomas Hewitt is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, home
designer and President of Falcon Home, Inc., Albuquerque, NM.
For more information on Falcon Homes, Inc., visit their website
at www.falconhomesinc.com or call Thomas at 505-323-5361.
Current News Releases
Contact: Thomas Hewitt
505-323-5361
Thomas@FalconHomesInc.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THOMAS HEWITT AWARDED
CERTIFIED AGING-IN-PLACE SPECIALIST (CAPS) DESIGNATION
Albuquerque, NM, November 4, 2005 - Thomas Hewitt
of Falcon Homes, Inc. recently became one of the select group
of professionals nationwide to earn the Certified Aging- in- Place
Specialist (CAPS) designation, identifying him as one of the building
industry's top professionals with skills and knowledge specific
to home modifications for aging- in-place.
The RemodelorsTM Council of the National Association
of Home Builders (NAHB) in collaboration with the NAHB Research
Center, NAHB Seniors Housing Council and the AARP created the
CAPS program. The CAPS designation program teaches the technical,
business management and customer service skills essential to compete
in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry-home
modifications for the aging-in-place.
CAPS was developed to help home remodeling professionals
meet the needs of the 77 million Baby Boomers that will reach
retirement age in the first years of the 21st century. The CAPS
designation identifies remodelers that have been trained to help
retirees and older adults remain in their homes safely, independently
and comfortably, regardless of income or ability level, and continue
to live in a familiar environment throughout their maturing years.
In three days of coursework, the CAPS curriculum
incorporates a variety of information tailored to aging- in-place
home modifications, including: background on the older adult population;
communication techniques; common aging-in-place remodeling projects;
marketing to the aging-in-place market; common barriers and solutions;
codes and standards; product ideas and resources; and business
management.
CAPS program graduates are required to maintain
their designation by attending continuing education programs and/or
participating in community service projects. CAPS classes are
offered through local and state home building associations and
at national trade shows including NAHB's International Builder's
Show and the Remodelers' Show.
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ALBUQUERQUE, NM -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 03/01/2005 -- Falcon Homes,
Inc., an Albuquerque design firm, and Interior Styling by Karla
have teamed up to promote the value of designing houses suitable
for people at all life stages. By working together, the two companies
can provide architectural plans and custom interiors for independent
living that "look like" familiar southwestern homes.
Falcon Homes (www.FalconHomesInc.com) specializes in "Easy
Access Design" floor plans that utilize Universal and Adaptable
design criteria to promote safety and comfort in the home.
Universal Design describes space that allows a wide range of use
by everyone regardless of ability. Adaptable design is space that
is easily modified to accommodate a person with a particular need.
"Universal design concepts have been around for several years,"
says Thomas Hewitt, President of Falcon Homes. Hewitt points out
that while homes are relatively static, people are not. "Our
needs in a home change over time, and our homes should be designed
in ways that better accommodate those needs."
Adjustable shelving in closets, for instance, is equally beneficial
for children, for a person who uses a wheelchair, or for anyone
with limited arm reach. Doors and hallways wide enough to accommodate
a wheelchair or other ambulatory aid are essential to universal
design.
Interior design plays a significant role. Proper lighting,
contrasting colors and changes in the textures of surfaces are
a few examples of interior design applications that help define
spaces. Replacing one sensory cue for another is a design technique
that can greatly enhance the home for a variety of people with
differing abilities.
Falcon Homes also applies Universal and Adaptable
criteria to homes centered on the needs of adult children caring
for elderly parents in their homes instead of moving them to assisted
living facilities. "We are in the business of helping families
stay together," says Hewitt. "Our designs fit seamlessly
into our neighborhoods while promoting independent living and self
reliance."
