In June, the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) released data from the U.S. Census Bureau detailing the 2018 state and county population characteristics.

According to DBEDT, the state’s elderly population, those 65 years and older, grew 33.7% between April 1, 2010, and July 1, 2018, with an average growth rate of 3.6% annually. This demographic comprised 18.4%, more than 260,000 residents, of the statewide population in 2018, ranking Hawaii seventh among the U.S. and the District of Columbia.

The data affirms the “Silver Tsunami” is now impacting Hawaii. As this demographic grows in size, the issue of well-being and care is more prevalent for island families, especially when it comes to housing. In recent years discussion around incorporating aging-in-place design strategies ensures the senior population has the option to live independently in their homes.

Today it is essential to widen this discussion to highlight “universal design,” which takes a holistic approach to both home and business space design. Whether it is where we live, work or play, universal design may set the foundation for a comfortable environment that can make positive impacts on life for all users now and further into the future.

Aging-in-place design includes some of the many universal design principles. For example, when you look at a universal bathroom design, some of the most common physical features are a curbless shower, roll-in vanity and comfort height toilet.

When incorporating universal design into any space, the individual may also consider the effects of using different colors throughout the room. Lighter colors may provide more comfort on the eyes while contrasting colors can help distinguish level and material differences, making it easier to navigate the space. This is especially important for those with vision problems, mobility issues or a busy parent rushing off to work or a child’s sporting event.

Universal design not only impacts the individuals living in the home, but family and friends who come to visit. Create at least one entry that is usable by all, consider varying countertop heights in the kitchen so that individuals of any size or ability may participate in meal preparation or a larger entertainment gathering.

The benefit of universal design is that the strategies may be maximized outside the home as well, in offices and other workplace settings. For example, how many times have you heard a co-worker make a comment about glare and lighting on a computer screen? Using non-glare surfaces and optimizing the right lighting in workspaces could have a tremendous effect on work productivity and well-being.

Some of these strategies will be highlighted at “Design Impacts Lives,” a free community event on Sept. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Na Lama Kukui in Honolulu. Hosted by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Hawaii Chapter, attendees can get hands-on experience at the showroom or attend workshops to learn about humancentric lighting design, color tiles and indoor/outdoor living strategies.

Also planned: a panel session on the latest home and commercial design trends, opportunities to have one-on-one meetings with interior designers, and a diverse sample sale, where a portion of proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to talk story with the design community on how you can prepare your home or office for the future, and understand the things you could do now to help ease into the later stages in life, with the comfort, safety and independence we all deserve.

Nancy Schnur is past president of the American Society of Interior Designers, Hawaii Chapter (www.hi.asid.org).