Assisted Living Feature
THE FUTURE OF ASSISTED LIVING: WHAT TO CONSIDER AS AN INSTALLER Around 1.7m people in the UK are living in properties that aren’t suitable for their dayto-day needs, according to new research. With an aging population, more chronic health problems and an increase of multi-generational families living under one roof, our homes need to be designed and built, or retrofitted, to cater for all ages and abilities. Experts predict the number of UK households headed by someone over the age of 65 will increase by 54 per cent before 2041 , further highlighting the need for the industry to design and build for longevity. As occupiers get older and family dynamics change, we need to create living spaces that are flexible, inclusive and suitable for everyone, When it comes to kitchens, we need to consider the layout, fixtures and fittings so it is practical, safe and comfortable for all users – whether they are in a wheelchair, struggle to reach over worktops, or have deteriorating eyesight. In bathrooms, appliances with safety features could be installed to reduce the risk of both young and older people scalding themselves or flooding the space, while showers, baths and other 40
