It is estimated that there will be over 65 million Americans over the age of 65 by the year 2030, and over a million boomers will reach the age of 100. There is so much market potential that remains unexplored. If universal design is to offer a choice to all users, it must be affordable. These low costs are expected in commercial facilities when accessibility is considered during the initial design. Affordability and accessibility need not be mutually exclusive.
Universal design can also lead to cost reductions.
Design intervention is less expensive than staff intervention. In health care facilities, universal design encourages patients to take responsibility for their own health. A universally designed workplace expands the labor pool while universally designed products expand the market place. A universally designed workplace reduces injury, employee turnover and forced retirement. By retaining older workers, companies can benefit from a trained and reliable work force while saving the cost of duplicating the medical benefits provided by Medicare.