Universal Design and Home Modifications

Prior to listening to Michael Nesmith’s TED Talk I had never heard of universal design.  Universal design is a concept to construct buildings and public spaces in such a way that everyone, regardless of their disabilities or abilities can access them.  One example is automatic sliding doors.  A person in a wheel chair, a mother with a stroller and kids, and an elderly person with a walker can all access the building without a problem compared to traditional doors.  Universal design is meant to meet everyone’s needs and make sure everyone can access buildings in an easy and universal way.  I loved listening to Michael Nesmith’s talk and hearing his own stories of interacting with others despite being deaf. 

Another area of occupational therapy that really excites me is home modification, especially adapting the home environment for seniors to live in place as they age.  My grandparents are getting into their 90s now, so this topic has been very applicable to me as I have watched them age and seen some of the struggles they have had with their health and wanting to maintain their independence.  It is not only a struggle for them, but also very stressful on their children to help navigate this process.  I wish every elderly person would receive OT services to help them modify their home to make it safer for them as their health is declining and work with them to complete the activities they want to partake in despite poorer health and strength.  My grandmother did not receive OT services until after she had fallen and broken both of her ankles because she tripped at home.  I only wonder if she was receiving OT before her fall, if that injury could have been prevented.  All that to say, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the Glass Half Full’s podcast on this topic and hearing about the way occupational therapists are working with builders to make home modifications that allow seniors to stay at home longer and are much safer for them.