Whilst the population of Britain has been relatively stable of late and only a modest growth predicted over the next 25 years, changes in the age structure profiles are posing serious problems.
The number of pensionable people is projected to increase from nearly 11.4 million in 2006 to 12.2 million in 2011 and will rise to over 15.9 million in 2031.
This growth will impact on many aspects of life and is likely to increase the demand for more homes which can meet the needs of elderly and very elderly people.
Dementia is a particular problem in that It is predicted that over the next 30 years.
The number of people with the condition will double to about 1.2 million.
The cost to the Economy for both formal and informal care is expected to rise from £15.9bn in 2009 to £34.8bn in 2026. (figures supplied by NAO).
So much can be done with design to aid not only the sufferers but also the management of buildings and their carers.
I believe these design principles should be applied to all Care and Extra Care Homes for the future, and a programme of upgrading applied to all existing sheltered housing to bring them in line with new thinking and technology.
It is a fact that more and more people will develop dementia and or some form of physical disability and every housing scheme should be able to cater for the increase and pressure this will bring.
It is not acceptable to provide separate home or care establishments and move people on. Their home is their home and should be for life. The home should therefore be able to provide for all eventualities of mental and physical care for the lifetime of the occupants and the building.
If a building is designed correctly it can save money in care and management facilities and in turn put less strain on social service providers.
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