The development of social well-being in new extra care housing schemes

This report by Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) investigates the development of social well-being for older people moving into 15 new-build extra care housing schemes.

There is increasing interest in extra care schemes for older people as a way for them to live independently while receiving care and support, and having more opportunities for social interaction. Extra care has the potential to promote social well-being, but the evidence base, although growing, is somewhat limited.

This report:

• describes how schemes had begun to develop social activities and community during their first six months, identifying facilitators and barriers to social participation
• considers the social climate or 'atmosphere' of the schemes one year after opening;
• discusses differences in individual social well-being one year after opening.