A safe, warm and suitable home is fundamental to health, wellbeing and independence. Yet for many people in later life, their housing does not meet their needs, whether because of poor conditions, rising costs or a lack of accessibility.
The Centre for Ageing Better’s State of Ageing 2025 report highlights the scale of the issue. Around 2.3 million people aged 55 and over in England are living in homes classified as non-decent. These properties may be in poor repair, lack adequate facilities or be difficult to heat, with potentially serious consequences for health and quality of life.
As people’s circumstances change, a home that was once suitable may become harder to manage. Steps, narrow doorways, inaccessible bathrooms and cold or damp conditions can make it more difficult to remain independent. However, moving is not always affordable or practical, particularly when people have established connections with their local community.
Later Life Ambitions (LLA), of which CSPA is a member, believes that housing policy must better reflect the needs and circumstances of an ageing population.
LLA is calling for all new homes to meet the accessible and adaptable M4(2) standard, alongside a National Home Adoption Programme to help people make improvements to existing properties. This could include adaptations such as ramps and walk-in showers, as well as measures to improve insulation and heating.
The campaign also calls for stronger protections for older private renters, an expansion of age-friendly social housing and greater support for alternative housing models, including co-housing and shared ownership.
The aim is not to prescribe how people should live in later life, but to ensure they have a genuine choice.
Everyone should have the opportunity to live in a home that is safe, suitable and affordable, and that supports their independence for as long as they choose.
