The Critical Demand for Later Living Homes in the UK
The UK is undergoing one of the most significant demographic transformations in its history. More than 11 million individuals (18.6% of the total population) are now aged 65 or older, compared to 16.4% in 2011. By 2066, the percentage is expected to rise to 26%, introducing another 8.3 million senior citizens.
The UK is undergoing one of the most significant demographic transformations in its history. More than 11 million individuals (18.6% of the total population) are now aged 65 or older, compared to 16.4% in 2011. By 2066, the percentage is expected to rise to 26%, introducing another 8.3 million senior citizens.
The demographic shift signifies not just a social evolution but a critical planning challenge. The need for later living is vastly outstripping supply, with significant implications for communities, families or public services.
A Long-Standing Shortfall
Research by the International Longevity Centre (ILC) anticipates a 37% deficit in retirement housing by 2040. The Mayhew Review suggests the need for delivery of 50,000 senior living units annually to satisfy demand. However, the reality is stark: only 7,000 later living homes are constructed each year, merely 3% of all new housing developments.
Even increasing this to 30,000 units per year would account for just 10% of the Government’s target of 30,000 new homes annually. In essence, the UK is falling behind in meeting this critical need for housing retirement and amenity housing.
The Importance for All
While the later living sector may appear niche, it is vital to the overall health and sustainability of the broader housing system. A lack of sustainable housing for seniors, including homes for over 60s, creates a ripple effect – hindering downsizing, reducing housing availability for families and escalating pressure on health and social care systems.
Quality later living options allow older adults to live independently, safely, and within their communities, minimising isolation and hospital admissions. They also free up under-occupied family homes for the market, supporting housing delivery objectives directly.
The Significance of Planning and Design
To address this deficit, planning and design must advance. Local development plans should earmark sites specifically for later living homes and care provision, while national policies need to define clear guidelines and promote flexible approaches to ensure tenure, density and land use.
Designing for older life necessitates more than just meeting accessibility standards, it involves creating environments that enhance wellbeing, social interaction and independence. From strategically located developments to integrated communal facilities and elderly care homes, these initiatives must provide genuine lifestyle choices.
Boyer’s Dedication to Bridging the Gap
At Boyer, we’re dedicated to collaborating with clients and local authorities throughout the UK to deliver innovative, sustainable later living developments. Our planning and design teams are well-versed in the unique challenges of the sector, from navigating intricate policies to securing approvals for integrated retirement communities and care homes.
The evidence is clear: the UK cannot achieve its housing or health ambitions without prioritising later living. It’s time to make age-appropriate housing, including amenity housing and homes for the over 60s, a fundamental aspect of planning policy and a catalyst for building stronger, more inclusive communities.
At Boyer, we are driving the future.