[Age-adaptable to any age].
A definition separating the "elderly" from younger people should be avoided as well as any manifestation of any type of segregation. The environment must provide equal chances and opportunities for every person, regardless of age or abilities. Self-determined independence throughout life and the chance to remain in one's established home, community, and familiar environment require barrier-free design in all areas of the person's life-space. Dependencies and disabling factors can be diminished, and abilities can be restored by intensive rehabilitation and support of personal dignity, assisted by ambulant care and by products designed as barrier-free. They, lower the need for special aids and save costs. Such solutions are available. They must be applied with all consequences.