Everyone's heard of "kid-proofing" a home—covering sockets, locking lower cabinets, and generally making it hard for little ones to get into something they shouldn't.
But what about making a home safer and more convenient for grandparents, other older houseguests, or homeowners "aging in place?"
That's what Universal Design is about. It's sort-of the opposite of kid-proofing, a set of principles that make things easier to get into, instead of harder.
Some Universal Design ideas require actual remodeling or rewiring. Think about wider hallways, for example. ("Proper access for wheelchairs requires 42 to 48 inches of clearance for all pathways. Doorways should be at least 36 inches wide for the same reasons," according to the AARP.) Additional lighting on stairways is another example. These can be important options for permanent residents of your home or "in-law" space.
But there are lots of simpler ways to make your home more welcoming and easy to navigate.
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Use lamps or increase the wattage of light bulbs to offer better "task lighting" for eyes that aren't as sharp.
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Replace standard door knobs with lever-type handles that are easier to turn.
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In the kitchen, replace current cabinet and drawer hardware with easy-pull D-shaped hardware. A single, centered pull is easier than using two knobs at the sides of the drawer.
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In the bathroom, consider slip-proof flooring or mats, especially in the tub. Also, a safety bar or "grab bar" adds security in a tub or shower. Professional installation is great, but DIY options are available. Also, a shower entrance with no lip is simpler to get in-and-out of.
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Replace knob-style sink and faucet hardware with "blade" style pieces, easy to adjust with one hand.
Other choices, such as flooring, are more complex. Some experts recommend low- or mid-pile carpet for bedrooms and living areas, because it's easy on feet and joints and provides some cushion in the event of a fall. Cork flooring is a different alternative to hardwood worth exploring. However, having lots of transitions between different flooring types and levels creates its own hazards. Experts do agree on one general flooring rule: avoid area rugs, which are easy to trip over.
Voice-controlled smart home appliances and features can really change a home's ease of use. Siri, Alexa, and similar products are rapidly improving and expanding the number of devices they can control. Not everyone is comfortable with voice technology and its privacy concerns.