Abstract

There is an increasing demand for housing that enables older people to live independently with a greater quality of life (QoL) even when impairments and care needs increase. This article reviews the QoL for this cohort and housing design considerations that facilitate it through a two-step process. First, a review of literature is undertaken to identify key aspects of QoL that are important for older people with care needs and relevant to architecture. Second, established design frameworks are critically reviewed to identify features and gaps in knowledge to address them. The research finds that while existing knowledge focuses heavily on improving the independence and control of older people, there is not sufficient established knowledge for improving other aspects of QoL. The gaps in design knowledge include: the micro-spatial requirements for greater control, accommodating personal guests, undertaking preferred activities, and accommodating important possessions, as well as opportunities for housing complex design to provide greater connections to communal facilities and the wider community. There is a need to clarify the effects of housing design on enhancing the wider range of aspects of QoL specifically for older people with care needs. Addressing these aspects can aid in the establishment of a holistic framework for housing design that supports a fulfilled life in their own home in later life.