Sustainable living in retirement communities: Housing modifications to help seniors age in place

Background: Aging in place, the ability to remain in the same home as opposed to being institutionalized, is preferred by many aging adults. Research indicates that remaining in one's own home allows for a continued sense of independence that may sustain health stamina. However, modifications to the home are often necessary. Methods: As part of an exploratory study of The Villages, FL, an active adult retirement community, qualitative health data were collected from seniors (55+) via 59 focus groups, stratified by age (+/- 70 yrs), gender (male/female), and health status (excellent/good, fair/poor) between September and December 2011 (N=451). Focus group data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed via content analysis to identify salient themes using NVivo 9.0. Results: Content analysis revealed residents' satisfaction with initial modifications completed by the community builders. Modified housing designs included single-level homes with no step up; grab bars in tubs; raised toilet seats; and roll-in showers. As aging participants' needs shifted, they expressed continued desires for additional modifications to their homes including: ramps to the front door; wider door jams to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers; and straight hallways to accommodate gurneys in case of emergency removal from the home. Conclusion: The Villages community has been successful in implementing many modifications to homes to help seniors age in place, and residents and builders are interested in expanding these efforts to ensure continued successful aging. This study serves as a foundation for discussion with home owners, community planners, and retirement communities to make it easier for seniors to age in place.