Accessibility for All: Universal Interior Design Ideas

Universal interior design is basically the idea of accessibility for the broadest range of people, excluding as few people as possible. This means people of all ages, both genders and those with limited mobility should be able to navigate an area with minimal help from another person. It is not only about people who use wheelchairs, but those who have arthritis, people of a short stature and so on. Do you have trouble reaching the top shelf in your kitchen? Back problems? Is your eyesight diminishing? We want to design interiors with you in mind, too.

Limited Reach: For someone who uses a wheelchair or is not able to reach far, there are several ways to help accommodate this person. In the kitchen, cabinets should be 48 inches from the floor; cabinets and closets should have pull-down shelving; shelves should be no more than ten inches deep; and lazy susans can be very helpful. Hand-held shower heads make showering easier, and electrical outlets should be 27 inches above the floor for accessibility.

Poor Strength: Not everyone is able to push or pull with the same amount of strength. This is why special hardware and controls may come in handy for certain individuals. Drawers slide easily with special tracks, and it is easier to open cabinets that have D-shaped handles. Push button controls, automatic garage door openers and rocker light switches are convenient for people with limited strength in their hands and arms.

Coordination Problems: You have probably heard numerous stories about elderly people falling and getting hurt. Older people and individuals with hearing problems may have diminished balance. So for those who are at risk of falling, rounded edges on counters and tables will help them avoid hurting themselves on these objects. Walk-in showers, grab bars and transfer benches all help to minimize these risks, as well. If stairs are unavoidable, handrails will be of assistance for these people while walking up or down them.

Limited Vision: People with limited vision need proper lighting and labels that are easy to read. Walkways, entrances, closets and stairs should be well-lit. Stoves and appliances that pose the risk of harming oneself should have controls that are clearly labeled to avoid a dangerous situation. Have you ever turned on the wrong burner and nearly burned yourself? This is a higher risk for someone who has diminished eyesight.

These are not the only considerations for universal interior design, but they are some of the main ones. Besides elderly and disabled individuals, think about whether the family has any children or pets. The home's design should accommodate them, as well. Children are not able to reach faucets as well as adults, and neither children nor animals should be able to get into anything harmful. Remember, universal design is all about ensuring accessibility for all - or, at least the broadest possible range of people.

References
Universal Design , ASID
How Well is Your Home Caring for You? , AARP