Beyond Housing Type: Rethinking Universal Design Through Affordable Retrofitting of Ageing Homes in India

Ageing in place is increasingly important in India, where many older adults live in homes not designed for changing mobility and support needs. Although Universal Design (UD) provides a basis for inclusive housing, extensive retrofitting may be difficult in existing homes. This paper uses a qualitative, literature-informed comparison of high-rise apartments, independent homes and compact urban housing across five parameters: mobility stress, behavioural familiarity, operational resilience, safety vulnerability and incremental adaptability. The comparison identifies housing-specific vulnerabilities and feasible retrofit priorities, including small changes to lighting, surfaces, support features and everyday spatial use. Based on these findings, a Realistic Adaptability Framework is proposed to connect residents' needs with housing constraints, affordability and incremental intervention. The approach applies UD principles to existing homes while recognising the practical limitations within which ageing in place occurs.