Since this talk is sponsored by the NW Universal Design Council, you could rightly guess that one factor that can contribute significantly to aging in place (i.e. staying out of a nursing home) is Universal Design. Universal Design is often defined as products and environments that are usable by all people to the greatest extent without the need for adaptation.
A good example is a single lever faucet, the opposite of two separate faucets for hot and cold. Now there are even touchless faucets for homes, like you’d find in an airport restroom. But the most typical examples are a lever that can be worked for both temperature and flow with an elbow or closed fist.
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Published by jeannettefranks
Jeannette Franks, PhD, is a passionate gerontologist and for over 20 years has taught ethics, grief and loss, and courses on geriatrics and gerontology for the University of Washington.
Franks' most recent book is, To Move or To Stay Put: A Guide for Your Last Decades. Look for it now on the University Bookstore website http://www.bookstore.washington.edu/home/home.taf?
It is also available at Eagle Harbor Books on Bainbridge.
Franks previously published a definitive guide to independent and assisted living titled Washington Retirement Options, and often speaks on retirement options, disability issues, end-of-life issues and is an advocate for accessibility. She has a goal of making Bainbridge an elder-friendly community and is available to groups and families to discuss these issues.
She served for nine years on the Kitsap County Advisory Council on Aging and Long-term Care. She also has the privilege of working in a small way for the past 15 years with the Suquamish tribal elders.
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Jeannette Franks, PhD 