What is “Aging in Place and Universal Design”? Aging in place is defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as "the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age, income

or ability level."

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Universal Design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without

the need for adaptation or specialized design. The seven principals of Universal Design focus on:

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• Equitable Use – The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

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• Flexibility in Use – The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. 

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• Simple and Intuitive Use – The use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the users’ experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level. 

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• Perceptible Information – The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the users’ sensory abilities.

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• Tolerance for Error – The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

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• Low Physical Effort - The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with minimal fatigue.

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• Size and Space for Approach and Use – Appropriate size and space are provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.