Lack of preparation forcing older Australians to leave their home

By

February 04 2020
Share

Older Australians who want to remain in their own home are being reminded to modify their properties or risk being forced to make unwanted accommodation decisions under duress, new research has found.

According to research conducted by the Global Centre for Modern Ageing (GCMA), the industry needs to help older Australians who want to remain in their home by improving services.

The research found that despite wanting to stay at home, only 17 per cent of older Australians who were surveyed thought their homes required repairs or modifications to do so.

GCMA research director Stuart Smith said older people increasingly want to remain living in their own home.

“Helping people to remain independently in their homes is increasingly important. However, we know that this may not always be possible, so it is also critical to understand how ‘home’ can be created in any place of residence,” Mr Smith said.

The report highlighted that even among those who were experiencing difficulties at home, only 40 per cent of respondents acknowledged the need for home modifications.

GCMA chief executive Julianne Parkinson said the national research identified an opportunity for industry to provide greater public education around home modifications to help people understand their needs, the options available to them and the processes involved before decisions are rushed or forced.

“For people who have identified the need to make changes around their home, our research identified key barriers to home modifications, including affordability and being able to find trusted builders and tradespeople,” Ms Parkinson said.

The GCMA believes a framework designed around choice, safety, comfort, access, independence, connection and happiness will better guide older Australians.

Mr Smith said the House-Home-Haven framework could serve as a guide for individuals and families and could also assist industry to take a more client-centric approach when developing commercially viable homes, retirement villages and aged care facilities that enable quality living and improve world standards.

About the author

Cameron is a journalist for Momentum Media's nestegg and Smart Property Investment. He enjoys giving Aussies practical financial tips and tricks to help grow their wealth and achieve financial independence. As a self-confessed finance nerd, Cameron enjoys chatting with industry experts and commentators to leverage their insights to grow your portfolio.

About the author

Cameron is a journalist for Momentum Media's nestegg and Smart Property Investment. He enjoys giving Aussies practical financial tips and tricks to help grow their wealth and achieve financial independence. As a self-confessed finance nerd, Cameron enjoys chatting with industry experts and commentators to leverage their insights to grow your portfolio.

sections

most read

sections

most read

sections

most read

sections

most read

sections

most read

sections

most read

sections

most read

Most read

Age Pension increase prompts Australians to review their finances

Latest Podcast

Superannuation guarantee rate rises to 12 per cent as parental leave changes ...

Resources

There is $17.5 billion in lost and unclaimed super across ...

Invest