Universal Design

Everyone can use universal design! It doesn’t matter if you are young or old, short or tall, healthy or ill, or have a disability. Because of universal design, people who are very different can all enjoy the same home even when their needs change.

Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.
Most universal design features just make good sense. Once you bring them into your home, you’ll wonder how you lived without them. Such as:

• Floors and bathtubs with non-slip surfaces help everyone stay on their feet. They’re not just for people who are frail. The same goes for handrails on steps and grab bars in bathrooms.
• Thresholds that are flush with the floormake it easy for a wheelchair to get through a door and keep others from tripping.
• Good lighting helps everyone see better, especially people with poor vision.
• Lever door handles and rocker light switches are great for those with poor hand strength. They are also helpful when your arms are full of packages.