Universal Design and Aging in Place

What is Universal Design?

Universal design makes things more accessible, safer, and convenient for everyone. Also called “Design for All” or “Inclusive Design”, it 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.

Examples of universal design include no step entries, no curb showers with seats, lever handles, higher outlets, lower switches, wider hallways and door openings, blocking for future or present grab bars, planed lighting, and the accessibility features incorporated into kitchen, baths and computer operating systems and software.

Richard Bergman is a certified green builder, energy star rated builder, and an aging in place specialist.