A research paper from Colorado State University brings together all the elements for successful ageing in place. These are universal design in housing, walkable and wheelable communities. It discusses home and place, and what it means for residents. Simply providing “age-friendly” infrastructure is insufficient to support population ageing.
While the situation is a little different in the US, the research supports Australian studies and the advocacy for universal design in housing. However, the recommendation for market incentives in terms of certification has not worked in Australia. The situation is similar in New Zealand. It has not produced mainstream uptake of accessible housing.
The tile of the report is, Colorado Lifelong Homes: A review of barriers and solutions for aging in place.
From the abstract:
Colorado’s aging population is growing, yet our housing options are not evolving to support this population. Housing that accommodates people as they age is crucial to balancing demands on other services. We need more than assisted living facilities to support successful and healthy ageing.
Most homes in Colorado are not built using principles of universal design that support successful ageing in place. The outcomes of engagement activities show that advocating for lifelong housing is a critical step to advance age-friendly housing.
This paper summarizes key research and industry trends related to lifelong homes. These include the barriers in the marketplace, and the key qualities of lifelong homes. Based on this research, we present a path forward for advancing affordable, healthy, and safe home options for our growing population of older adults in Colorado and beyond.