Modifying one's home is merely customizing it. Nothing more, nothing less. A universal design accommodates all—from small children to elderly, and it's a worthwhile consideration in the planning stages of house design if a homeowner is planning to stay in the same house after retirement. Installing lever-type door handles, for example, or wheelchair accessible entrances and bathrooms isn't any more expensive than regular knobs and doorways.

When accessibility features are added everyone is welcome. Home modifications can accommodate everyone from persons with mobility impairments to those with vision loss, hearing loss or even cognitive or developmental disabilities. Everyone's home can be safe and comfortable.