A home aligned with UD principles can help prevent a later need for pricey, specialized, often unattractive safety and accessibility modifications by using designs, building techniques and fixtures that are stylish, functional, flexible and attainable.

By integrating universal design principles into legislation, state and local leaders can help create housing that meets the needs of people of all ages — especially older adults.

One way local leaders, universities, housing advocates and building professionals can encourage the creation of the UD housing we need is by hosting a housing design competition.