Is the concept of a ‘forever home’ outdated?

The way the UK looks at housing for the elderly is changing dramatically. There are more pensioners than children under 16, and people over 80 are the fastest growing group. This is challenging the long established concept of the ‘forever home’.

The generation born just after World War II isn’t accepting old stereotypes about getting older. They want to keep living fully by staying social, working part-time, volunteering, and enjoying hobbies.

As someone who runs a company with 200 retirement properties, I talk to our residents a lot. Their main wish is to keep their independence and stay connected to their community by being able to go out with friends, shop for themselves, and have their personal items close by.

Housing challenges and the need for change

Being in a position to listen to many older adults, I see firsthand the limits of current housing options. It’s urgent that the government rethinks its housing strategies to provide homes that meet the clear demand for better choices.

Well over 10 million people aged 65 or older are reshaping the concept of ageing by aiming to stay active and involved. One of our residents in Surrey, Gillian, does not fit into the typical view of what an elderly person desires. When we met, she spoke about the joy she and her friends find in their freedom, the variety of activities, feeling safe, and the support they get in retirement housing. This allows them to enjoy their interests happily and easily. Her experience is a testament to a generation that won’t be boxed in by old ideas about ageing.

“The concept of a ‘forever home’ is becoming old-fashioned as old age is increasingly seen as a time for remaining active, not decline.”

– Spencer J McCarthy – Churchill Retirement Living

Questioning the idea of a ‘forever home’

The dated idea of a ‘forever home’ is being overturned because growing old is not about decline anymore. Retirement housing is coming to the forefront as a flexible choice that allows the elderly to relish this phase of life rather than see it as an undesired necessity.

We’re moving away from the old housing stories and recognizing that people’s homes should adapt to their changing needs throughout their lives.

Choosing the best locations for building homes

Strategic location and design of homes are key to supporting the varied lifestyles of the elderly. Being near urban areas is crucial for convenient access to services and for being part of a wider generational mix of people.

It’s important not to isolate elderly communities, but to encourage connections across all age groups. The balance between being secure and independent is essential, with support like on-site managers available when needed, giving homeowners confidence and control over their living spaces.

The importance of social connections to combat loneliness

Unfortunately, loneliness is a common problem, with Age UK stating that roughly 1.4 million older people in the UK feel lonely.

This loneliness can be more intense when older adults stay in homes that are meaningful to them but lacking in social opportunities. Retirement communities can help combat loneliness through shared areas where residents can easily meet and socialize, which is vital for their mental health and can be done on their terms.

Ensuring enough suitable housing is available

Retirement living should give people over 60 the chance to direct their own lives, especially considering that we’re living longer. The housing sector should provide homes that fulfill the hopes of this group.

The government has an important role in making it easier for the housing market to grow sustainably and provide varied living options that cater to the dynamic needs of this demographic. Industry leaders call on the government to reform policies to better respond to the strong demand for improved housing choices.