Sensible universal design concepts can be incorporated into any household without detracting from the overall residential feel and look of the home. A home built with "universal design" features looks like most any other home, yet it includes enhancements that enable residents to live comfortably to the greatest extent possible and to continue to stay in their homes as they age. Below is a list of features almost all of which are not prohibitively high in cost. Adapting any of these would be a step in the right direction:
level access - front door and garage
lever door handles
9-ft. high garage door - van height optional
3-ft. wide exterior/interior doors
minimum 36-inch wide hallways (prefer 42 inches)
front loading laundry appliances
wider, deeper stairs
closer shelving in adjustable heights
non-slip flooring with level thresholds
lighting/interior finishes for finding your way
dual cueing (both visual and audio indicators) for
doorbell and security and smoke alarms
easy access, instead of standard 30" width.
with click stops.
single lever faucets
pulls (no knobs) on cabinets and drawers
counter height oven
raised dishwasher
countertops at a variety of common heights - 30", 36" and 42"
roll out shelves or drawers in lower cabinets
glass doors or open shelves in upper cabinets
vertical (pantry style) cabinets for most used items
waste and recycling containers on pullout drawers in lower cabinets
side-by-side refrigerator/freezer (prefer 24")
safety shutoffs and dual cueing (where available) on appliances
pullout step stool
rollout carts
contrast edge on counter and flooring
varied light sources and adjustable controls
Bathrooms
extra wide entry
shower designed for transfer or Rollin
consider options for flush threshold, no-door shower,
shower seat
handheld spray with long hose
raise toilet heights as option
do not enclose toilet, or, if compartmentalized, provide option to open up
Electrical
outlets minimum of 24" above floor
light switches 44" above floor
touch or toggle luminous light switches
thermostats at easy-to-read location and elevations
Security
home wired for security
direct wired to police, fire, and EMS (as option)
security at guardhouse
flashing porch light and/or 911 switch
garage entry.
