An AARP survey shows that 89 percent of Americans would like to live in their current homes as long as possible–and the number rose to 95 percent when people over age 75 were asked the question. But that same AARP survey shows that most people aren’t doing the proactive thinking necessary to make that a reailty. Just 16 percent said they had made any modifications to their homes that would make it possible to stay as they age.

That’s where universal design comes in. The term refers to a set of architecture and design principals geared to providing suitable living environments for a diverse range of people. For people who are aging, universal design encompasses everything from the height of countertops and electric sockets to usability of faucets, door levers, switches, and appliances. Some of the best ideas include wide, no-elevation entrances, comfort height toilets, lever door handles, safety grab bars and better lighting.

What follows are a collection of the best online resources I’ve found on universal design. I hope to grow this guide over time to make it as useful as possible Want to suggest a link? Post it as a comment on this page.

Resources

Getting past the hype on where to retire. My August 6, 2008 column on universal design trends.

Universal Design Living Laboratory. Read about Rosemarie and Mark Rosetti’s quest to build a demonstration home in Columbus, Ohio that promotes universal design principals. Rosemarie has lived in a wheelchair for the past 10 years following a spinal cord injury and has made universal design her cause.

Universal Design Living Laboratory’s links. The Rosetti’s have built a useful page of resource links.

Aging in place checklist. Toolbase, a site sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders, offers a handy and very exhaustive list of features to consider in new construction or renovation projects.

Universal design overview. From AARP’s website.

Certified aging in place specialists. Search this CAPS directory to find specialists in your area.

Wiki universal design. The page at Wikipedia on universal design.

The future of retirement living. Elinor Ginzler, director of livable communities for AARP, spoke at a National Press Foundation seminar that I attended in June, 2008. Ginzler is a passionate advocate for aging in community. This page has a link to the audio of her presentation.

Photo gallery. The PBS program POV, which focuses on technology and disabilities, has a photo gallery on best practice in universal design.

Tags | aging in place, Universal design