Occupational Therapy and Universal Design

OT + UD

What is universal design?

Definition from Ron Mace and the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University:

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

Examples of UD products/spaces:

• Automatic doors at grocery stores 
• Levered door handles
• Moving sidewalks at airports
• City Garden (downtown STL)

What do OTs have to do with universal design?

There are not many individuals within the various design fields who particularly focus their schemes on designing spaces with the human life span, development, and varying level of ability in mind. OT's are not only expert task analyzers but also recognize that an individual's occupational performance and engagement are dependent upon their environments.

Principles of UD:

1.       Equitable use- the design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities

2.       Flexibility in use- the design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities

3.       Simple and intuitive use- use of design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level

4.       Perceptible information- the design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities

5.       Tolerance for error- the design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions

6.       Low physical effort- the design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue

7.       Size and space for approach and use-appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility

Why use Universal Design?

• allows older adults the option to “age-in-place"
•  more attractive design options than the stereotypical accessible features 
• increases an individual’s level of potential independence 
• increases integration in to the community for individuals who may otherwise have special housing needs that would isolate them 
• cost-effective
• conceptually more developed than current accessibility and ADA laws

How do I learn more about UD?

• Universal Design Summit 5, a national conference focused on universal design in housing and communities, will be taking place at the Busch Student Center (on the campus of Saint Louis University), May 6-8^th. For additional information about the conference please visit: http://udsummit.net/ 
• Follow the conference on twitter (@UD Summit) or “like” us on Facebook (facebook.com/UniversalDesignSummit)

This UD garden features a walkway that includes color contrast and texture changes, benches for those who need rest breaks, and some shade. Additionally, there are raised garden planters. What an attractive design!!

This UD laundry room features raised washer/dry with front mounted controls, a pull under sink, loop handles on cabinets and drawers, wheeled laundry cart with garage.

This bathroom contains many UD features such as: a curbless shower entrance, a hand-held shower head, a shower bench, and a turning space.

This type of lock features allows keyed or touch button operation.

This entrance features gradually sloping sidewalk that leading to the front door. The door has UD features, including a covered entrance-to protect owners from the elements and a side lite, to see who is at the door and to let in natural light.

Handsome, well lit bathroom with clear space under the sink. The lever handle on the faucet is attractive and easier for everyone to use.