| According to the Statistics Canada Census of 1996, most seniors are living at home in private households. Only a small proportion of seniors are institutionalized. Until the 1960s, housing did not successfully help those who were aged or had special needs. With the inception of public housing in the 1960s and, social and special needs housing in the 1970's, this began to change. It wasn't, however, until the mid-1980's the phrase, aging in place, gained popularity. It was recognized that needs change over time. Studies have shown that seniors want more choices in housing that allow them to be where they want or need to be, with minimal restrictions on their lifestyle, while feeling they are in control of the decision making process. Variety and flexibility in the planned environment are now becoming major requirements.; Through interviews with seniors organizations, planners, architects, developers, and other professionals it was recognized that several issues, when addressed, may assist planners in developing continuum of care communities. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
