An Aging Population and an Aging Housing stock – Housing Accessibility Problems in Typical Swedish Dwellings

Abstract

A large proportion of the Swedish housing stock was built when policymakers and housing industry rarely considered housing accessibility issues. More than 80% of Swedish citizens aged 65+ live in dwellings built before 1980. Using detailed research data from onsite observations, we explored housing accessibility issues for people with different complexities of functional limitations. Four typical dwellings were selected, two from the 1960s and two from the 1990s. Accessibility problems were considerable, also in newer dwellings. Design features that need particular attention are highlighted, serving as research-based input to policymakers, public agencies and actors involved in housing development and provision.