Accessible Living: Designing for Sustainable Ageing at Home

Designing for the Future

You may be either are looking to build a forever home, or you are looking at updating the home we already live in, to future proof and accommodate for new or future needs. It is easy to fall into the trap of "form over function", rather than letting practicality come first. It is also sometimes difficult to predict what the future may hold, or we haven't given it too much thought but are building to the needs we have today. Future-proofing our homes is a good investment and increases the likelihood of us being able to remain in our home for longer.

If we ensure we have carefully considered the functions we need to achieve for both now and in the future, the design does not need to be an afterthought, or be an eyesore. It is when we need to go back and change designs and rebuild, that this may become less aesthetically pleasing, and also making it more likely to cost more. Therefore, when we design a home it is important to consider designing living spaces with accessibility in mind. If this hasn't happened and we now need to go back to re-design, this too is of course possible.

In this post, we'll dive into the principles of accessible design which sometimes also is called Universal Design, where we will be exploring some key elements, and touch on what it means to integrate universal design concepts in our home.

1. Open Floor Plans for Easy Navigation

Creating an open floor plan serves as a foundational element for accessible living. Open spaces removes obstacles which may otherwise become trip hazards and it promotes easy manoeuvrability. Having open floor plans allows for someone using a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aids, to move seamlessly from one area to another. Even without mobility aids, an open plan space reduces the risk of falls as there are less trip hazards. Getting the balance right between having enough open floor space and having too large of a space is key, as when we get older, we may not want to care for a large space, or waste energy on having to move around in a larger space than needed.  

2. Wider Doors for Unrestricted Movement

Wide doorways are essential components of accessible design. These larger entrances accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, ensuring unrestricted movement between rooms. By eliminating narrow passages, homes become easier to navigate, creating an environment where wheelchair users can move freely without constraints. Also consider the weight of the doors, and in which direction the doors swing, as it needs to be easy to move from one area to the next, in both directions. Pocket doors are also a way to free up some space. Below are some universal design measurements, with recommendation of widths of passages needed to be able to manoeuvre freely.

3. Accessible Bathrooms for Daily Independence

Bathrooms are critical spaces where accessibility features can significantly impact daily life. Incorporating elements like grab-bars, roll-in showers, and raised toilets ensures that individuals with varying levels of mobility can maintain their independence with personal care routines. An accessible bathroom is a key contributor to a safer and more inclusive living space. Considering having enough floor space to be able to turn around an manoeuvre is also essential, and have the ability to close the door while in there with the mobility equipment. E.g. would you be able to turn around with a walker or wheelchair in the WC/toilet and close the door? These doors may be easier to manoeuvre if they swing out rather than in to the bathroom. Are the door handles easy to open? Lever handles often work better than round knobs. Different countries and regions have different building standards, so it is worthwhile exploring your local building codes. This book is one example of guidelines out there.

4. Flat Surfaces for Seamless Transitions 

Flat floor surfaces throughout the home contribute to a smooth and uninterrupted living environment. These surfaces not only facilitate mobility aids but also reduce the risk of tripping or stumbling. This means avoiding steps and adding ramps if steps do exist, to make full access easier. By opting for consistent flooring materials and minimising thresholds, homes become more user-friendly for aging residents.

5. Incorporating Universal Design Principles

The concept of Universal Design means that the design is considering accommodating for most people, aiming to create spaces for people of all ages and abilities. It emphasises inclusivity, flexibility, and simplicity. From lever-style door handles to easy-to-reach light switches, universal design principles ensure that every aspect of the home is considerate of diverse needs, making it a welcoming and adaptable environment. Universal Design Principles is a big topic in itself, and there are plenty or resources out there to learn more about this.

If you wish to learn more about how to make the home environment more accessible, allowing for someone to age well in place, this book can also be an interesting resource. 

Conclusion

Designing living spaces with accessibility in mind is a proactive and empowering approach to aging safely in place. By considering open floor plans, wider doors, accessible bathrooms, flat surfaces, and the incorporation of universal design principles collectively contribute to an environment that not only meets the immediate needs of residents but also adapts gracefully to changing requirements over time, you are on to a good start. By embracing these principles, individuals can create homes that foster independence, comfort, and inclusivity, allowing them to age safely and confidently in place.

For a free download of a Home Safety Checklist, click on link, where useful tips of equipment also is provided