AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

1. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

2. What do you mean My Home is a Ketchup Bottle? AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME What does Heinz Ketchup have to do with Universal Design in the home?

3. After creating one of the most widely recognized ad campaigns… Why abandon that iconic glass bottle after 100+ years? Why give up its most dramatic and unique point of difference for added functionality? • Heinz realized it could build a better bottle by • Turn bottle upside down • Making contents easier to dispense, and therefore, accessible to everyone who likes ketchup. The concept behind designing products that everyone can use, whether they are 4 or 94 years old, is called - Universal Design AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

4. We are currently building homes following the same conventions Heinz followed for more than 120 years – “WE DO IT THIS WAY BECAUSE WE’VE ALWAYS DONE IT THIS WAY” AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

5. It is time to design our homes for all of us. Whether we are 4 or 94. Everything in our homes, including our home itself, needs to follow the example set by Heinz. Isn’t it time we made our castle more like the Heinz ketchup bottle? AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Which bottle is your next home?

6. THINK UNIVERSAL DESIGN AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

7. Before we begin take a quick look at the size of average people AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

8. Dimensions of the Human Body These dimensions are based on the average human body. Since there are very few “Average” humans these dimension should be thought of as a general standard. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

9. Dimensions of the Human Body These dimensions are based on the average human body. Since there are very few “Average” humans these dimension should be thought of as a general standard. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

10. Dimensions of the Human Body - Reach These dimensions are based on the average human body. Since there are very few “Average” humans these dimension should be thought of as a general standard. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Vertical Reach Average human overhead and under counter storage measurements

11. Dimensions of the Human Body - Reach These dimensions are based on the average human body. Since there are very few “Average” humans these dimension should be thought of as a general standard. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Horizontal reach

12. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME For people in a wheel chair it is even more limited

13. Many Universal Design features will add to the cost of a home But let’ s take a quick look at the alternative to building to allow Aging-In-Place. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

14. Cost of Care Survey 2013

15. So let’s look at the home in all its parts. Here’s how to apply Universal Design AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

16. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Site Plan and Landscaping • Minimum of one entrance at ground level. Ideally with no steps or ramps needed to enter. • Level walkways with little or no slope. • Any slope should be very gradual with ideally no more than 1 inch of rise in 20 inches of walk. • Walkways • southern exposure to encourage snow melting. • paved walkway or driveway from street to entrance. • at least 42 inches wide and 48 if possible • Maintenance-free exterior and trim. • Trees, shrubs, and plants that require little maintenance (raking, pruning, watering, mowing) Yes - Green is a part of Universal Design. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

17. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME The Entry • House numbers • Large, simple, color contrasting lettering • Easily read from the street or sidewalk. • Covered porch or stoop at the same level as the floor inside. • Ample landing space inside and outside the entrance. • 5 feet by 5 feet is a minimum if possible • Shelf or place to sit or set things down both inside and outside the entrance. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

18. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME The Entry • Low or Level threshold (no more than ½ “ Ht) • to prevent tripping • Ease of access • Door at least 36 inches wide to allow a minimum of 34 inches clear opening. • 42 inch door is even better. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

19. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME The Entry • Door locks, including dead bolts, that are easy to operate • such as keyless locks • Lever style door handles • Peepholes at multiple heights • Electronic surveillance devices are becoming more common and affordable • Good lighting both inside and outside the entrance. • Sensor lighting on the exterior is particularly helpful • Lighted door bell. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

20. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Ramps Any walkway with a slope greater than 1 inch of rise in 20 inches of run is considered a ramp. If a ramp is used provide hand rails on both sides. Provide a crutch or wheel stop at edges. Ramps should have as gentle a slope as possible but try to never be steeper than 1 inch of rise in 12 inches of run. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

21. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Ramps AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME When the total ramp rise is more than 36 inches an intermediate landing should be provided. A level landing should also be used when a ramp changes direction.

22. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Ramps Sometimes a very small ramp can make a difference. They don’t have to be fancy. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

23. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME The Garage • No step entry from the garage to the home is preferred. • If a step up to the house from the garage is needed provide ample landing space out side the door. About 5 feet by 5 feet is a minimum. • Install an electric garage door opener with a remote control unit. • Garage interior should have good lighting with an automatic switch controlled by the remote garage door opener. • Some vehicle adaptations require more side or end room. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

24. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Doorways and Halls • Door at least 36 inches wide with lever hardware • Avoid or minimize hallways and doorways when possible • Wide, spacious hallways and door ways for moving furniture as well as a walker or wheelchair • Hallways a minimum of 42” W • Pocket doors often provide a good alternative to a hinged door but are harder for some to operate • Patio doors - use a low threshold model or small ramp with inside and outside surfaces at approximately the same height. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

25. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Stairs • Use colors and textures that contrast with adjacent floor surfaces and between treads and risers. • Carpeting should be avoided on stairs • if used it should be securely attached • Sturdy handrails located on both sides • At least 42” if not 48” wide • allows assistance on a stair • room for installation of a stair lift without impeding normal use of the stair AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

26. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Stairs • Steps with no overhanging nosing are best • Stairs should have • maximum riser height of 7” • minimum tread dimension of 10” but 11” is better AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

27. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Stairs • Handrails should extend beyond the first and last riser a minimum of 6 inches but 12 inches at the top and 24 inches at the bottom is better. • Always return the rails to a wall or a newel post. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

28. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Stairs • Straight run stairs • lend themselves to stair lifts most economically • single landing and turn may be safer and better -particularly if the landing is large enough for safe placement of a bench or chair to sit and rest. • Provide plenty of good non-glare lighting. • Light switches at the top and the bottom as well as an electrical receptacle –a stair lift might be installed in the future. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

29. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Lifts • The words used when discussing “lifts,” “elevating devices,” “elevators” and “hoists” can be confusing as the terms are often used interchangeably and consequently, inappropriately. Be very clear what it is you are talking about. • Vertical Lifts - typically used to provide access between different floors of a house, or from the ground level outside the house to an inside floor level • There are three main types of lifts: • Vertical platform lift • Inclined platform lift • Stair lift • A chair lift usually refers to a special type of chair that rises and tips to help an individual get out of the chair. • Residential elevator commonly used term for a lift that is enclosed in a shaft and travels vertically between floors. • The term “hoist” may refer to a device used to transfer/move a person in a sling and usually is connected to a lifting mechanism such as a ceiling mounted rail or a floor mounted dolly. Transfer system is an appropriate description. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME The best bet is to NOT use the terms “Hoist, or Chair Lift” unless you are very clear what you are talking about.

30. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Lifts – Vertical Platform Lift • Vertical platform lifts • can be installed inside or outside. • can be equipped with platforms of various sizes • must be securely mounted on a solid and stable base (typically a poured-concrete slab). • A grounded, 110-volt electrical supply on a dedicated circuit is typically required. • Vertical platform lifts need to be sheltered to protect users from rain and away from areas where drifting snow can accumulate. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Vertical platform lifts should be enclosed at the top and the bottom to prevent falls and to stop children or animals from getting under the platform.

31. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Lifts – Incline Platform Lift • Consist of a platform that moves up and down over an existing stairway. • Typically supported by rails that are mounted to a wall on one side of the staircase. • A grounded, 110-volt electrical supply on a dedicated circuit is typically required. • Barriers to installing an inclined platform lift in an existing stairway • Available headroom • Narrow stairway width • Clear floor space at top and bottom of stairs AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

32. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Lifts – Stair Lifts • Consist of a seat that travels up and down a stairway • Seat runs on a track or rails mounted on the surface of the stairs • Stair-mounted track reduces the usable width of the stairs • Require clear floor space at top and bottom for transfers • Wheelchair and walker users need equipment on each floor served by the lift AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

33. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Lifts – Stair Lifts • A concern - is getting off the chair at one of the most dangerous places in a house — the top of a flight of stairs. • A good stair lift will have a seat that turns at the top of the stair to allow safer dismount. • may not be the safest solution for people with transfer, balance or visual limitations. • Not all stairs are the same. • Some are steep and others twist and turn • Can be made to custom fit virtually any configuration. • not a do-it-yourself project – always consult with a professional to determine the safest and best installation. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

34. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Residential Elevators • can be equipped with cabs of various sizes and styles • range from the basic cab to fully fitted out cabs with • power gates • custom interior finishes such as wood, ceramic tile, marble and granite A grounded, 220-volt electrical supply on a dedicated circuit is typically required. • must be securely mounted on a solid and stable base (typically a poured-concrete slab) and braced to the structure of the house. • require a depression in the floor below the lift shaft — typically 12  to 14” below the floor level of the lowest stop. • If no depression is provided at the lowest floor a ramp may be used to access the elevator if room is available. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

35. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens – Space Planning • Open floor plans to create good sight lines • Counters and appliances that are easy to use when seated or standing. • Minimize steps within Work Zones • Food prep • Cooking • Clean- up • Refrigerator • Clear floor space for maneuverability • 42” to 48” walkways are a minimum AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

36. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens – Space Planning • U-shaped or L-shaped kitchens distribute the main work zones • Islands offer increased flexibility AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

37. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens – Counter Tops • Three countertop heights are typically provided in a UD kitchen: • 42" to 45" for standing height • 36” standard work surface • 30-32” for seated cooks & children • Countertops in cooking area should be at the same height as the cooktop to allow the user to transfer heavy pots with little or no lifting. • Heat resistant materials such as granite or solid surface should be utilized near the cooking zone. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

38. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens – Counter Tops • Plenty of countertops with rounded edges and blunted corners • Include sufficient counter space on both sides of the sink and all appliances. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

39. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens - Cabinets • Full extension drawers and shelves, pull-out cabinets, vertical slats, adjustable shelving, lazy susans • Maintains organization • Easier to see and reach items in lower cabinets • Cabinet hardware should be “D” or “C” shaped. Stay away from knobs that may be hard to grasp. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

40. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Kitchens - Appliances • Dish washers mounted on a 9” Ht base • reduce bending and kneeling • provide a raised work area • Consider the use of a drawer dishwasher • Appliance controls • Easy to read, reach and use. • Front or side controls are best. • Touch controls are better than those that require turning. • French door refrigerators = better access. • Counter height or under counter microwaves – never over the stove. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

41. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Bathrooms • Ample floor space for maneuvering between fixtures- with a caregiver, walker, wheelchair, etc • No or low threshold walk in shower or an accessible tub • Raised seat, chair height toilet. • Seating in the shower area or at the tub. • Easy access storage – consider roll-out shelving. • Rounded corners on all counter tops. • Non slip flooring. • Mirrors positioned for seated or standing user (tilt or pivot can work well). AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

42. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Bathrooms – Grab Bars Grab bars come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

43. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Bathrooms – Grab Bars • Towel bars are not Grab bars but Grab bars can be used as towel bars. • Grab bars need to • be securely anchored • Able to resist at least a 250 lb force pulling them away from the wall. • See the manufacturers’ recommended anchors. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

44. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Bathrooms – Grab Bars One way to solve the “where do I put blocking” question is to use Universal Blocking which allows for almost any installation. • Install a ¾ inch x 4ft high sheet of plywood at 24” above the floor on all walls that might need grab bars (all walls is best). • Universal blocking takes little additional room and adds relatively minor cost. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

45. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Laundry • Ideally located on the main floor, near the bedrooms and bathroom. • Washer and dryer placed for convenient use • Front loading appliances on a platform • controls that are easy to reach and operate • Work surface convenient to use either sitting or standing – think about efficient transfer of heavy items such a wet clothes. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

46. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Laundry • Fold down ironing board - also used as folding space and out of way when not in use • Moveable storage is a good option • If a separate laundry room cannot be accommodated on the main floor, plan for an easily adaptable future space on the main floor with electrical and plumbing connections. • Consider creating a “clothing room”, by merging a closet and stacked washer and dryer together for a practical solution. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

47. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Living and Dining Areas • Create open, spacious and barrier-free rooms. • Large windows allow the use of natural daylight • Variety and high quality lighting to create bright and cheery atmosphere. • Select light wall colors • Area large enough to accommodate normal furnishings and allow easy maneuvering around • Minimum of 36” clear aisle space in front of furniture, rooms. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

48. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Living and Dining Area • Combining spaces makes efficient use of space and allows flexibility in use. • Upholstered furniture • Firm enough to provide ergonomic support • Properly scaled for each room. • Furniture should be • comfortable but sturdy • not too low or deep. AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

49. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Bedrooms • Light switches and security system controls reachable from the bed • Telephone jack near the bed • Extra electrical outlets near both sides of the bed • for rechargeable items • For medical devices • Sometimes two beds are needed • Ample maneuvering space • Minimum 3’ clear space on each side of bed and in front of dresser. 5’ is ideal AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME

50. UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME Closets & Storage Simple or grand think of the user AGING-IN-PLACE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN: A LOOK AT THE HOME A place to sit can be storage