Design For the Aging in Place Community: Re-Imagining the Older New York City Apartment Dwelling in Naturally Occurring Retirement Communitie

The senior population in the United States has been steadily increasing for over six decades. According to the U.S. census bureau, the senior population will reach approximately 80 million by the year 2050, with one in five adults age 65 or above.1 In less than 10 years these numbers will increase exponentially. It is predicted that this surge in the senior population will place a significant strain on available housing and resources that can effectively meet the needs of an aging population. In the city of New York, support systems established in the past such as housing subsidy programs still remain and many seniors continue to live in apartments first rented many years ago. The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges faced by residents of older New York City apartments when physical features of the home no longer meet the needs of the senior occupant. Factors hindering daily activity were examined, particularly those that limit mobility. The study further investigated best practices and design solutions aiming to improve daily life for the aging in place community and design solutions to modify the difficulties associated with existing and older housing stock.;The research methodology included a survey, interviews and home visits. Participants for the research survey included senior residents (over the age of 60) living in Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) and apartment developments. Some were chosen for home visits where features unique to the apartment unit were assessed on an individual basis. Participants identified limitations of apartment configurations as barriers to mobility. Results pointed to the level of concern participants felt with regard to physical safety and the cost of potential modifications. The findings of this study can assist design professionals to identify problematic conditions, identify solutions, and improve private units. Ultimately transformations will help facilitate activities of daily living, enhance accessibility, improve ease of mobility, and create safer environments.