According to the U.N., we are in the midst of a longevity revolution. More than 700 million people in the world are over the age of 65. I hate to admit it, but my wife and I are both in this category. The U.N. report on aging population is fascinating, explaining all the implications to society and the economy.
The Building Code has also looked at the aging population and the impact it has on plumbing fixtures. When the 2021 ICC International Building Code gets adopted, there will be new optional requirements to address assisted use plumbing fixtures. We typically think of assisted use being in a nursing home; however, it can be other facilities used by the elderly.