A Jann1. 1. Age Stiftung, Kirchgasse 42, 8001, Zürich, Schweiz, antonia.jann@age-stiftung.ch.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The variety of living possibilities for ageing people has increased in the past few years. This vast range of housing arrangements does not make orientation any easier for individuals. The definition of housing and caring arrangements not only differs from one country to another but also within countries. MATERIAL AND METHOD: To develop a framework describing different housing offers, we started to work with a positioning matrix, which is known in economic sciences. The matrix turned into the Age-Wohnmatrix which is defined by two basic needs of elderly people: the importance of being autonomous and the desire to be integrated and secure. RESULTS: On the autonomy axis, there are three different types of housing arrangements: private living arrangements, special housing offers for elderly people, and institutional living. The security axis starts by offering apartments, followed by social integration, assistance, and care. CONCLUSION: The Age-Wohnmatrix should be a helpful tool to analyze and define the character of housing options for elderly people.
BACKGROUND: The variety of living possibilities for ageing people has increased in the past few years. This vast range of housing arrangements does not make orientation any easier for individuals. The definition of housing and caring arrangements not only differs from one country to another but also within countries. MATERIAL AND METHOD: To develop a framework describing different housing offers, we started to work with a positioning matrix, which is known in economic sciences. The matrix turned into the Age-Wohnmatrix which is defined by two basic needs of elderly people: the importance of being autonomous and the desire to be integrated and secure. RESULTS: On the autonomy axis, there are three different types of housing arrangements: private living arrangements, special housing offers for elderly people, and institutional living. The security axis starts by offering apartments, followed by social integration, assistance, and care. CONCLUSION: The Age-Wohnmatrix should be a helpful tool to analyze and define the character of housing options for elderly people.