New Lifestyles in Old Age

Policy makers and service providers are increasingly aware that housing and care services for older people need to be more flexible, innovative and inclusive. In Britain, purpose-built retirement villages similar to those that have existed in North America and Europe for some time are attracting increasing attention, reflecting both an awareness of the ageing of our population and a recognition that older people want a greater say in where and how they live, the design of their environments, and the kind of care and support that they might require in the future. This report explores what it is like to live and work in the new Berryhill Retirement Village in Stoke-on-Trent (developed by The ExtraCare Charitable Trust and Touchstone Housing Association), and shows that retirement housing does not have to be planned and developed solely with middle-class professionals in mind. Based on the experiences of residents, staff, families and other stakeholders, the report: identifies the factors that facilitate the development of a positive environment in which to age; asks why people moved into the Village and whether they felt that their lives had improved there; considers the full range of sources of support both inside and outside the Village; details some of the ways in which such environments can facilitate people in their efforts to overcome illness and poor health and enjoy a good quality of life; draws out wider policy and practice lessons for those who might be considering developing similar schemes. The report is essential reading for policy makers and practitioners in housing, health and social care, as well as academics interested in these fields.