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Housing for frail elderly people.
1Age Concern Institute of Gerontology, King's College London, University of London.
Public Health
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Very sheltered housing offers a successful care solution for elderly individuals, providing 24-hour support and meals. However, this housing is more costly than home care packages and may house residents who do not require its intensive services.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Services Research
- Housing Studies
Background:
- Enhanced sheltered housing, offering 24-hour warden cover, meals, and personal care, is increasingly provided by local authorities and housing associations for elderly people.
- This housing model aims to support independent living while providing necessary assistance for older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness, cost, and resident suitability of very sheltered housing for the elderly.
- To gather perspectives from management, staff, and residents on the provision of enhanced sheltered housing.
Main Methods:
- A national survey was conducted, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of very sheltered housing schemes.
- The evaluation incorporated data on resident needs, service provision, and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Very sheltered housing was found to be a successful housing option, particularly for those transitioning from institutional care.
- The cost of this housing is higher compared to receiving a package of care at home.
- A notable finding was the presence of residents within these schemes who did not require or desire the level of support offered.
Conclusions:
- While effective for many, very sheltered housing presents challenges including higher costs and potential misallocation of resources for residents who could be accommodated elsewhere.
- Addressing issues such as unrealistic medical expectations and ensuring qualified staff involvement in medication management are crucial for optimizing care quality.