Study Shows Need for Creative Medicine Storage Solutions
The aging of the Baby Boomers will continue to drive demand for storage solutions that provide safe and easy access to medicine. That’s the key conclusion of a new study, conducted by the Research Institute for Cooking & Kitchen Intelligence, whose findings suggest a need for better storage solutions for much-needed but potentially dangerous medications. Traditionally, medicines are stored in the kitchen or bath, yet high humidity in the bathroom and heat-producing appliances in the kitchen can both cause medicines to deteriorate. Additionally, child-safe storage is critical to protecting children and grandchildren. Creative design solutions will be increasingly relevant in the coming years, creating new opportunities for designers and manufacturers, the study reports.

Universal Design Study Reflects Differing Views
A newly released survey shows that home builders and older (55+) homeowners have disparate views on the importance of various Universal Design features. Conducted by the National Association of Home Builders and the MetLife Mature Market Institute, the survey indicated the builders are placing more value than 55+ homeowners do on such features as lever-handled doors, wider entryways and ground floor full baths. However, these same consumers do want such amenities as non-slip floors, larger medicine cabinets, lower kitchen cabinets and emergency call buttons – features that are not as widely included in new homes. The survey also showed that, while consumers say they support builders’ efforts to create greener homes, they are not willing to pay significantly more for these features.