COLLABORATIVE FORMS OF HOUSING IN LATER: EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE. (11th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peace, S; West, K; Fernandez-Arioitia, M
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 2(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 155
• Page End: 155
• Publication Date: 2018-11-11
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.559
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: In the UK, despite major cross-parliamentary policy-making focusing on alternative forms of late life housing, some 90% of the older population choose to live in mainstream housing in age-integrated communities. The reasons for 'staying put' are complex and multifarious including concerns about loss of autonomy and control; the costs of services and affordability of charges; the availability, quality and choice of care and support services; and the imposition of institutional and old fashioned management practices. This paper considers the role of collaborative housing in the housing mix for older people and its potential for providing supportive environments in which to age. We ask 'is it an idea whose time has come'? Broadly defined, collaborative housing consists of 'forms of housing shaped and managed by older people' (Stevens, 2016). It encompasses a wide range of housing forms, including co-designed housing association developments; leasehold accommodation managed by older residents; shared housing cooperatives; and co-housing where residents manage the entire process from land acquisition to design and development. Collaborative forms are common in European countries: Netherlands, Germany, France, Sweden and Denmark, but far less common in the UK. This paper uses comparative material to understand who participates in collaborative housing, and whether they can be a home for life utilizing current empirical research from Britain. After attending this session, participants will be able to define: The types of collaborative housing for older people in Europe The potential for older people to be involved in the design, management and development of collaborative housing.