Universal Design Strategy for Products in Residential Spaces

Abstract

Background Social distancing has been observed because of the COVID-19 quarantine guidelines. Hence, there was a care deficit for the people with disabilities, elderly, and children, causing physical accidents owing to difficulties in performing daily life activities independently in living spaces. The purpose of this study is to present a universal design strategy for products used in residential spaces to help solve these social problems. Methods By reviewing previous studies, we investigated cases of universal design of products used in residential spaces and organized their features. Since then, based on three rounds of Delphi surveys, the overall design of the products and their influence on universal design were evaluated. The evaluation results were analyzed to devise a universal design strategy. Strategies were derived by categorizing the characteristics with similar transition in the elements of the product. Additionally, we analyzed the effectiveness according to the strategy. Results As a result of analyzing the products used in residential spaces based on space, strategies that should be applied preferentially to each space were derived differently. 'Add Safety Devices', 'Add Movement', and 'Physical Interaction Reduction' strategies in bedrooms/living rooms, kitchen, and bathrooms, respectively, were widely used. It will be helpful for universal design if the strategies, which should be used preferentially, presented in the results of this study are considered first. Conclusions Designers and developers will be able to fulfill universal design guidelines by preferentially considering the universal design strategies that should be prioritized, as presented in this study. Additionally, the strategy presented in this study is a universal design strategy derived by categorizing the strategies implemented in products that are well-realized universal design. Therefore, this study will contribute to the study of universal design research methods that can increase utilization in actual universal design.