AARP asks states for more inclusive design standards

AARP has created a tool kit that states can use to establish building standards that guarantee accessible, inclusive construction and rehabilitation of single-family homes.“Nowhere has the disconnect between market norms, changing demographics and social expectations been more glaring than in the design and construction of private residential housing," the organization said. “Advocacy on behalf of inclusive design legislation … must focus on the need to change our entire approach to the design, construction and use of housing to reflect the needs and capabilities of all potential users and appeal to the broadest possible market of potential home buyers and renters.”Current standards apply mainly to multi-family construction, but one-, two- and three-family structures comprise 70 percent of the housing in the U.S. AARP is encouraging its state organizations to advocate for mandatory, inclusive standards for these smaller configurations. They would only apply to those with some public funding or support. They would comply with existing federal codes and establish a way to consider exceptions.Our Dick Carlisle writes and speaks frequently about the needs of our aging population, notably in this article for the Michigan Townships Association.