Appreciation for Universal Design by healthy older people
Poster Number
2
Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Artist Statement
The purpose of this research was to assess the perceived usefulness of Universal Design (UD) features for older adults. Specifically, we were interested in how the house functioned as the user aged and experienced increased frailties. We asked participants to rate the estimated usefulness of UD products not currently available in their homes. Participants included post-70 year old male and female residents of a retirement community. The assessment included the SF-36 which measured health status; a survey measuring the helpfulness of designs already in their home; a measure assessing photographs featuring UD additional products; an assessment of lighting levels in key work areas; and a question on the importance of UD features were in their decision to select the residence. Respondents with physical, emotional and social problems were more appreciative of UD design features. Our readings of the lighting levels in the participants homes were to low. Our results showed support for Lawton & Nahemow's (1973) Ecological Theory that different UD features were valued, depending on level of competency.
Location
Pacific Geosciences Center
Start Date
20-4-2002 9:00 AM
End Date
20-4-2002 5:00 PM
Appreciation for Universal Design by healthy older people
Pacific Geosciences Center
The purpose of this research was to assess the perceived usefulness of Universal Design (UD) features for older adults. Specifically, we were interested in how the house functioned as the user aged and experienced increased frailties. We asked participants to rate the estimated usefulness of UD products not currently available in their homes. Participants included post-70 year old male and female residents of a retirement community. The assessment included the SF-36 which measured health status; a survey measuring the helpfulness of designs already in their home; a measure assessing photographs featuring UD additional products; an assessment of lighting levels in key work areas; and a question on the importance of UD features were in their decision to select the residence. Respondents with physical, emotional and social problems were more appreciative of UD design features. Our readings of the lighting levels in the participants homes were to low. Our results showed support for Lawton & Nahemow's (1973) Ecological Theory that different UD features were valued, depending on level of competency.