From the Tennesean -- Universal Design as mainstream in private home construction:
Instead of knobs, many people choose levers to give them the upper hand in opening and closing doors.Once marketed only to older people, the levers are now targeted at homeowners of all ages, especially if the builder is using universal design principles in a house.
Full article:
Senior-friendly levers improve door design
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051029/LIVING02/510290346/1007/LIVING