Definition

The ability to live at home – wherever that might be – as comfortably and confidently as possible for as long as possible. Livability can be extended through the incorporation of universal design principles, telecare and other assistive technologies (Wikipedia).

What does an AIP designer bring to the table?

A designer who is conscious of the special qualities necessary to make an age-friendly home brings skill, experience, knowledge, and creativity into the design process. The AIP designer can smoothly incorporate accessibility features into the design of a home. The needs of each individual are different; an AIP designer has the creativity, flexibility, and innovative ability to build a room to suit the needs of the individual. She is aware of all the latest technologies and has herself the technical knowledge to install these features in the most effective way. At the same time, she has the creative genius to make the features a seamless part of the home’s overall design: your bathroom or kitchen should not look like an assisted-care facility, but should instead be stylish and homelike and should include everyone instead of singling out those with different abilities. AIP design features are meant to be used not only by the aging, but by their families as well.