Universal Design in Health & Wellness

The Universal Design Policy¹ was released in 2021 by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), and makes provision for seven principals of Universal Design that are referenced in the NZ Health Facility Design Guidance Notes².

These principles are:

• Equitable Use
• Flexibility in Use
• Simple & Intuitive Use
• Perceptible Information
• Tolerance for Error
• Low Physical Effort
• Size & Space for Approach & Use

Director for Planning and Development of the VHBA, Stefano Scalzo says:

“Let’s face it, as designers, we often generate and evaluate ideas based on what we know. We strive to make experiences that solve needs, work well with the human body, and improve lives. But here’s the problem: If we use our own abilities as a baseline, we make things that are easy for some people to use, but difficult for everyone else.

There are 7.4 billion people in the world. Our ambition is to create health environments that are physically, cognitively, and emotionally appropriate for each of them. It starts with seeing human diversity as a resource for better designs.”

In practical application, there are some simple considerations that we have collected from our experience and research:

• Allow adequate space around chairs and dining tables so that clients using mobility aids and wheelchairs can access the furniture easily.
• Make sure the access area between the entrance doorway and seating areas is at least 1,500mm wide so that clients and their carers have space to move and pass.
• Provide extra space for the temporary storage of equipment, such as walking aids and wheelchairs, while it is not being used.
• In small rooms where space is at a premium, attach castors to the furniture so that it can be easily moved out of the way during moving and handling tasks.
• Consider seating with arm rests, high backs and a wide and stable base.

By incorporating these principles and practical considerations, we can create health and wellness environments that are inclusive and accessible to everyone.

Universal Design is not just about meeting standards; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

^{1.https://www.vhba.vic.gov.au/universal-design-policy}

^{2.https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/publications/health-facility-design-guidance-note}

^{3.https://www.acc.co.nz/assets/provider/c579545d34/acc6075-moving-guide-facility.pdf}