Age Scotland: National Housing Survey Report

This new report by Age Scotland and Scot Inform, funded by the Scottish Government, reveals that fewer than half of people over the age of 55 polled in a recent survey think their home will be suitable in later life. With the number of over-65s in Scotland set to soar by 59% by 2037 (from 930,000 to 1,470,000), the report demonstrates that there is an urgent need to take the views of people in later life into account and “future-proof” housing stock. It also points to an increasing demand for homes for single older people, and more adaptable properties for those living with health conditions, disabilities, or dementia.

Of particular interest, the survey found:

• One in eight people say their current property is unsuitable (12%) while 46% either think it will be unsuitable in the future or are not sure, and
• This rises to one in five older people with disabilities (20%) who say their home is not suitable for their needs, and 15% of those with long term health conditions.