Housing an Ageing Population (England)

This paper opens with a summary on the current context in the UK, beginning with details on build figures and population numbers for the older demographic. It progresses to set the scene in terms of tenure type for the older population. It also covers the topics of home ownership and under-occupation among older households and the potential benefits which could be realised through downsizing. In section two, discussion moves to housing accessibility and the tensions which exist between the desire to remain in one’s home with the need to adapt to altering needs in later life. The lifetime homes design criteria, a set of sixteen measures to improve housing accessibility, are detailed along with an account of their implementation in England and the work still to be done, with only 1 in 20 homes fully accessible by the Government definition. Section three provides information on specialist housing; along with discussion on the current standing of the sector, the analysis and recommendations that have been made as to its utilisation and the positive impact that specialist housing can have from the perspective of the NHS. Section four outlines a number of further issues and initiatives, which include the Homeshare scheme, which facilitates intergenerational partnerships for mutual gain; with younger people living in the homes of older people for minimal rent in exchange for assistance with household chores and companionship. The paper closes with section five, which considers the factors which a successful older peoples’ housing strategy might address.