Rural Housing for an Ageing Population: Preserving Independence (HAPPI 4)

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An Inquiry established by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Housing and Care for Older People has concluded that older people's housing is neglected in rural areas.

The Inquiry report makes a number of 'rural proofing' recommendations to increase the quality, supply and range of more appropriate age-friendly housing. It suggested an adaptation of the HAPPI principles when designing new homes for older people in rural areas, noting that new housing could preserve independence for older people and save NHS and social care funds.

It also recognised the need to build greater resilience and connectivity amongst local communities across all ages in the countryside. The Inquiry saw at first hand and heard evidence that building hubs for older people within villages also has the added benefit of retaining their support networks of family and friends. The Inquiry therefore also calls for wider community-led support solutions that could help people remain in their own village and stay connected in isolated rural communities.