Download - Universal design april_2011
Universal Design: Why should we
care?
Occupational Therapy and Universal Design
Department of Occupational TherapyJefferson School of Health Professions,
Philadelphia, PAPresentation at the Occupational Therapy Center
at Jefferson in Second LifeApril 28 and 30, 2011
Presented by Kaitlin Rodriguez, OTS and Veronica Souter, OTS
Carol Siebert, AOTA says:
“…creating a universally designed community, livable community, a community of the future
helps people to realize that what you do as an industry is not about helping people who are
different but helping people regardless of their need to be a part of the larger community.”
What is Occupational Therapy?
Help people engage in meaningful occupations (things that occupy their time and energy)
Empower clients and promote participation
Help clients complete tasks such as cooking, bathing, shopping, go out with friends, and complete leisure activities
Who do OT’s help?
Infants, children, adults, older adults
People with physical and mental disabilities
OT’s work in many settings such as schools, hospitals, rehab settings, nursing homes, private homes, community settings, and mental hospitals
Link between the person, their environment and the occupations/meaningful activities they do
Barriers can arise from the person or environment
& reduce performance in occupations
Person-Environment-Occupation
Occupationalperformance
Maximizes Fit Minimizes Fit
What is Universal Design???
A way of designing products and the environment so that they can be used by the greatest number of people possible.
Design for all people, not any specific disability
Allows all people to use a space or product equally
Examples of Universal Design
Automatic faucets
Rocker light switches
Contrasting colors
Illuminated entryways and stairways
Zero threshold entrances
Wide doorways
Lever door handles
No Touch Faucets
Dishwasher Drawer
Wet Room Bathroom
Ramp
Lower Sinks
Microwave Drawer
Lazy Susan
UD Kitchen
UD Bedroom
UD Tub
What is an OTs Role in UD?
An OT can work with the client to identify what features and UD products the client will need.
The OT can then work with a contractor to help design the new bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, or entire home
What is the Benefit of UD?
UD is very beneficial because it allows the individual to “age in place” or remain in their own home after an injury/disability.
UD allows the home to fit the needs to the individual with the disability and also the rest of the family in a way that is aesthetically pleasing
This way of design does not single out the individual with the disability, it can be used and enjoyed by everyone.
Resources for the design of accessible homes www.UniversalDesign.com
Pictures from Stephen Kern (PhD, OTR/L), Marlene Weiner (OTR/L), and Sue Rodriguez