Inclusive design for an aging population

1.1 Application

This Guideline describes a series of core principles, guiding concepts, and tools applicable to the design and provision of products, services, and environments (PSE) that facilitate use by seniors and those whose abilities are affected by aging.

This Guideline may also be applied to designing PSE for the population at large, in conformance with the objectives of universal design.

1.2 Objectives

The objectives of this Guideline are to assist individuals and organizations in (a) raising the awareness of how variations in human abilities affect the usability and safety of PSE; (b) developing and implementing the practices of inclusive design for aging; and (c) providing PSE that improve utility and accessibility, reduce health and safety risks, enhance quality of life, maintain dignity, and promote inclusion.

This Guideline may be used as an overview of the processes for inclusive design for an aging population (IDAP) and as a reference for design techniques and features to be considered in meeting a specific need.

This Guideline is written in generic terms and its scope of application is intentionally wide; therefore, most providers of PSE will find it applicable and should benefit from its use.

1.3 Limitations

This Guideline may not apply to PSE for seniors with very severe or complex disabilities.

This Guideline does not reduce or replace regulations or other requirements for the safety and functional provision of PSE.

1.4 Language of this Guideline

The use of this Guideline is voluntary. Because the principles, concepts, keywords, and design solutions are all written in general terms, not detailed as specific requirements, the word should has been used throughout. If an organization chooses to adopt this Guideline, it should review how to structure and define the prescriptive requirements.