People are living longer, healthier lives than ever before. As they age, they are also seeking opportunities to stay active in their homes and communities. In the pandemic?s wake, our global society is searching for ways to elevate elder care.
?We need better design for individuals in this demographic,? says Michelle Xuereb, Director of Innovation. ?The lack of purpose-built, age-friendly homes that can support the transition between independent living and long-term care is placing an incredible pressure not only on long-term care facilities but also on all of us who are struggling for real solutions to accommodate our loved ones. Designing more affordable houses and apartments that meet age-friendly requirements would allow older people to remain in their communities for longer, if not for their entire lifetimes.? Michelle worked with a team comprised of subject-matter experts from BDP Quadrangle and our international colleagues from the London, Sheffield and Singapore studios to examine better solutions for age-friendly living. Together we have produced an extensive report that proposes a prototypical model.

The basis of the study is that third age seniors (people between retirement and age-related limitation) who enjoy relatively good health and mental competency can and should have viable options for long-term care. Approximately 70% of residents presently housed in long-term care facilities are people assessed with low or mild-to-moderate needs, which means that they ...