Many older people in Switzerland live cheaply, centrally located and spacious. But often their homes are neither age-appropriate nor barrier-free. Single people in particular often live in isolation. Solutions should be incorporated into planning.
The housing mobility of older people is low. This is shown by the study “Wohnen im Alter” conducted by the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and commissioned by the Federal Office of Housing (BWO). Despite changing housing needs, few people move. In 2022, only 5.1% of people over the age of 75 changed their housing arrangements. There are several reasons for this: the majority of older people live in centrally located flats with good connections and have sufficient living space. Some 73% of people over the age of 75 live in multi-family dwellings, and many benefit from low-cost, long-term leases. Many seniors are emotionally attached to their homes. They also face high market rents and relocation costs in a potential relocation. Many of the relocations that have taken place are within the same region; about half of the relocations in this age group have been to care facilities.
Absence of accessibility and modern building standards
But long-inhabited homes face significant challenges. According to the study, more than 60% of people aged 66 and older live in homes that were built at a time when building standards were not barrier-free. These shortcomings make independent living difficult and increase the risk of falls and other health problems. Renovations and adjustments may be necessary, but they are difficult for many seniors to implement.
Isolation carries risks
Another challenge is isolation: 77% of older people live alone or exclusively with peers, which increases the risk of an absence of support in everyday life. Older women are particularly affected, and loneliness can affect physical and mental health. Here, there is a clear need for support networks and services to enable self-determined living for as long as possible.
How can the housing situation be improved?
To meet the needs of older people, according to the study, they should be better integrated into regular housing markets. The aim is to create safe and livable housing that enhances the quality of life of older people. This will be achieved by age-appropriate renovation, barrier-free construction, and housing that has a strong link to care facilities. It is also important to ensure that people are supported in their current living environment so that they can live independently for as long as possible.
About the study
The study is based on extensive data on residential buildings, households, income and tenancies. These data were combined and analyzed using statistical methods to gain precise insights into the housing situation, relocation behavior and challenges faced by older people.