Making ageing in place possible through community and engaged neighbourhoods

Background: Ageing in place means to remain living in the community, with some level of independence, rather than in residential care. Considering the functional, symbolic and emotional attachments and meanings of homes, neighbourhoods and communities, a home is not only a fixed, physical place but part of dynamic landscapes of social, political, cultural and personal change. It is therefore important to increase liveability, accessibility and the opportunity for social interaction and appropriate care in the private housing stock connecting it to local communities and the immediate environment. Furthermore, it is important to understand that adapting existing homes is the necessary solution rather than constructing new buildings. Much has been published on the benefits of ageing in place, but one finds less academic input on how to make this possible. In this presentation we will therefore give an overview of practical solutions on how to enhance both the societal and environmental sustainability of ageing in place.

Method: This presentation builds on findings of a collaborative research and innovation project including three municipalities in central Norway. We will have a special focus on data of a literature and (social) media study about ways on how elderly and their relatives, volunteers, municipalities and businesses together can develop health-promoting neighbourhoods and living environments that make ageing in place possible. Practical tools, technologies, processes and approaches from Norway and beyond are presented and analysed for the feasibility in the local Norwegian context.

Results: During the presentation we will create awareness for the necessity to make timely adaptations to private homes, show examples of how to mobilize relatives and volunteers to share care responsibilities, and explore community-based, personalized care models within local communities and neighbourhoods.

Conclusion/implication: In a welfare state like Norway, it is unrealistic to place the entire responsibility for ensuring healthy living conditions and care provision on the elderly and the communities around them (relatives, neighbours, volunteers). Likewise, it is not possible for the state to assume full responsibility for adapting homes and neighbourhoods and to provide solutions for every individual. Creative solutions, grounded in liveable communities and neighbourhoods might ease the burden on both the welfare state and elderly and their carers.