CEAC CEAC Aging in Place & Universal Design 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A CEAC consultant recommends widening doorways to 32–36 inches clear width. This modification primarily supports which Universal Design principle?
- Simple and intuitive use
- Size and space for approach and use (Correct answer)
- Perceptible information
- Low physical effort
Correct answer: Size and space for approach and use
Widening doorways to provide 32–36 inches of clear width supports the Universal Design principle of 'size and space for approach and use,' ensuring passage for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
Question 2: When recommending flooring changes for aging in place, which flooring type best balances slip resistance, ease of mobility device use, and fall impact reduction?
- Thick, plush wall-to-wall carpet
- Low-pile carpet or smooth resilient flooring with non-slip treatment (Correct answer)
- Polished marble tile
- Loose area rugs over hardwood
Correct answer: Low-pile carpet or smooth resilient flooring with non-slip treatment
Low-pile carpet or smooth resilient flooring with non-slip treatment provides traction to prevent slips while allowing easy mobility device movement and offering some cushioning against falls.
Question 3: A client asks about visitability standards for a new home construction project. Which of the following is NOT one of the three core visitability features?
- At least one zero-step entrance
- Doorways with at least 32 inches of clear passage space
- A bedroom and full bath on the main floor
- An elevator to all upper floors (Correct answer)
Correct answer: An elevator to all upper floors
The three visitability standards are: one zero-step entrance, 32-inch clear doorways, and a half bath or full bath on the main floor — an elevator is not a visitability requirement.
Question 4: When recommending kitchen modifications for aging in place, what counter height adjustment best serves a seated user in a wheelchair?
- Standard 36-inch counter height
- Lowered counter sections at 28–34 inches with knee clearance underneath (Correct answer)
- Raised counters at 42 inches
- Standard height with a portable cutting board
Correct answer: Lowered counter sections at 28–34 inches with knee clearance underneath
Lowering counter sections to 28–34 inches with knee clearance underneath allows wheelchair users to approach and work at the counter in a seated position.
Question 5: A CEAC consultant is recommending lighting improvements for an older adult with age-related vision changes. Which recommendation is most evidence-based for aging in place?
- Reduce overall light levels to prevent glare
- Increase ambient lighting levels and add targeted task lighting to reduce shadows and glare (Correct answer)
- Use only natural light sources
- Install motion-activated lights only in hallways
Correct answer: Increase ambient lighting levels and add targeted task lighting to reduce shadows and glare
Older adults need higher light levels due to reduced pupil size and lens clarity; combining increased ambient lighting with targeted task lighting reduces shadows and contrast errors that cause falls.
Question 6: Which grab bar placement provides the greatest safety benefit for a client who has difficulty rising from the toilet?
- A horizontal bar on the side wall at shoulder height
- A side transfer bar mounted 33–36 inches from the floor on the dominant side (Correct answer)
- A vertical bar directly in front of the toilet
- A bar mounted above the toilet tank
Correct answer: A side transfer bar mounted 33–36 inches from the floor on the dominant side
A side transfer bar at 33–36 inches from the floor on the client's dominant side allows the client to push down to assist rising and provides directional guidance for lowering onto the seat.
CEAC CEAC Aging in Place & Universal Design 2
A CEAC consultant recommends widening doorways to 32–36 inches clear width.
This modification primarily supports which Universal Design principle?