Having a safe and accessible home is essential for healthy ageing. For older adults in Cumberland, well-designed housing can prevent ill health, reduce social isolation, and support independent living. As the number of people aged 65 and over continues to grow, housing policies and developments must proactively address affordability, accessibility, and integration with social care services.
Housing Needs for Older Adults in Cumberland
Older residents often require housing that meets their changing mobility and health needs, yet many existing homes lack the necessary adaptations for safe and independent living. Additionally, fuel poverty and energy inefficiency are key concerns, particularly in rural and older housing, which contributes to excess winter deaths and cold-related illnesses (National Energy Action, 2023).
To meet these needs, Cumberland must ensure that housing options and policies align with both local priorities and national housing targets.
National House-Building Targets and Local Planning
The UK Government has committed to delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, with an annual target of 300,000 homes to address the national housing shortage (Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, 2023). However, current completion rates remain below target, with only 193,000 homes built in 2023 (Reuters, 2024).
A key challenge will be ensuring that new housing is not only built but designed to meet the specific needs of older people, including accessibility features, integration with healthcare services, and sustainable energy efficiency measures.
Housing Options for Older Adults in Cumberland
Cumberland offers a range of housing options designed to support older adults at different levels of independence and care needs:
- Extra Care Housing – These self-contained, accessible homes cater to individuals over 55 who require some level of support while maintaining independence. With on-site care services and age-friendly adaptations, these settings provide security while enabling autonomy (Cumberland Council, 2023).
- Sheltered Housing – Consisting of self-contained flats with emergency alarm systems and access to support staff, sheltered housing enhances safety, social interaction, and mental well-being by reducing loneliness and fostering community engagement (Cumberland Council, 2023).
- Residential Care Homes – For older adults requiring round-the-clock assistance, Cumberland offers residential care facilities, including specialised dementia care units. These homes support individuals with complex needs in a safe and professional environment (Care Quality Commission, 2022).
Key Challenges in Housing Older Adults
Despite existing provisions, several challenges hinder older adults from accessing appropriate housing:
1. Affordability and Accessibility
Many older adults in Cumberland face difficulties finding housing that is both affordable and suitable for their needs. Rising housing costs, particularly in the private rental sector, make it harder for those on fixed pensions to relocate to more accessible accommodation (Cumberland Council, 2023). Limited availability of affordable age-friendly housing means that many older residents remain in homes that no longer meet their needs, increasing the risk of falls and hospital admissions (Public Health England, 2021).
Even when older adults want to adapt their homes to support independent living, the cost of essential modifications, such as stairlifts, handrails, and accessible bathrooms, can be prohibitive. While government schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme offer financial support for energy efficiency improvements, awareness remains low, and many older people miss out on these benefits (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, 2023). Local authorities have a key role in raising awareness and streamlining access to home adaptation grants and retrofitting programmes, ensuring more residents can safely age in place.
2. Affordable Warmth and Energy Efficiency
For many older adults in Cumberland, keeping their homes warm throughout the winter is a constant struggle. Fuel poverty remains a pressing issue, particularly in older, poorly insulated homes where high heating costs force many residents to choose between warming their home or meeting other essential expenses.
The consequences of cold homes extend beyond discomfort—they contribute to serious health risks, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular conditions, and excess winter deaths (National Energy Action, 2023). Vulnerable individuals, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, face a heightened risk of hospitalisation due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
Government initiatives, such as the Great British Insulation Scheme, aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs, offering support for home insulation and heating upgrades (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, 2023). However, awareness and uptake of these schemes remain low among older and vulnerable populations, meaning many who would benefit most from subsidised home improvements are missing out.
3. Integration with Social Care Services
For many older adults in Cumberland, accessing the right support within their housing setting can be a frustrating and complex process. While services exist to assist with health, personal care, and daily living needs, many older residents struggle to navigate the system, often only receiving help when their situation reaches a crisis point.
A major barrier is the lack of coordination between housing, social care, and health services, which leaves many older adults without the preventative support they need to remain independent for longer (Public Health England, 2021). Without proactive interventions, minor issues—such as mobility challenges or managing long-term health conditions—can escalate into avoidable hospital admissions or the need for emergency care.
Future Considerations for Housing in Cumberland
To address these challenges and improve housing for older adults, the following strategies should be prioritised:
Expansion of Affordable Age-Friendly Housing
As Cumberland works towards meeting national house-building targets, it is essential to prioritise affordable, purpose-built housing designed to meet the needs of older residents. Housing policies should encourage investment in mixed-tenure developments, ensuring a balance of social, rental, and ownership options. By creating housing that is adaptable and suitable for ageing in place, older adults can maintain their independence for longer while benefiting from secure and accessible living environments.
Retrofitting Homes for Accessibility and Energy Efficiency
Increasing funding for home adaptations, such as grab rails, stairlifts, and accessible bathrooms, will allow more older residents to continue living safely in their own homes. Expanding access to affordable warmth schemes, including insulation grants and fuel subsidies, can also help reduce cold-related health risks. Local authorities have a key role to play in raising awareness of government initiatives, such as the Great British Insulation Scheme, to ensure that older adults benefit from available support for energy efficiency improvements.
Integrating Housing with Social Care Services
Cumberland Council has already brought its housing and adult social care services into one team. A more coordinated approach between housing providers, NHS services, and social care teams will help older adults receive the support they need to live independently at home. Digital solutions, such as remote monitoring and telecare, can provide reassurance and medical support while allowing residents to maintain their autonomy. Exploring multi-generational housing developments could also provide alternative solutions, fostering intergenerational support networks and reducing social isolation among older adults.
By implementing these measures, Cumberland can ensure that its ageing population has access to safe, affordable, and well-supported housing, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for older residents.