Research carried out for the Changing Ageing Partnership (CAP) has found that those who design and plan sheltered accommodation in Northern Ireland could do more to meet the needs of the residents who live there.

The research, entitled 'Better Housing for the Ageing Population in Northern Ireland', was conducted by Dr Karim Hadjri a senior lecturer from the School of Planning, Architecture and Civil Engineering at Queen's University.

Dr Hadjri said: "The Essential Role of Sheltered Housing Northern Ireland - the consortium of sheltered housing providers - estimates that housing associations in Northern Ireland provide over 10,000 sheltered flats and bungalows for older or disabled people.

"This is a third of their overall stock of social rented housing. Many older people rely on this accommodation to allow them to maintain their independence, whilst having easy access to support and assistance.

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"There are over 300 sheltered housing schemes in Northern Ireland registered with the Elderly accommodation Council.

"This research aimed to find out whether or not this accommodation meets their needs, and outlines how sheltered housing can be made as accessible, safe and comfortable as possible for residents," he said.

He continued: "Whilst some sheltered accommodation developments in Northern Ireland are of a very high standard, others show room for improvement. Ten out of the 26 buildings surveyed during this research were less than satisfactory.

"Older people deserve to feel happy, comfortable and safe in their homes, and some simple modifications can help ensure that this is the case.

"Using clear signage and coded colour schemes to denote areas that are used for different purposes would make it much easier for older people to find their way around buildings."

Dr Hadjri also added the importance of providing effective alarm systems, good lighting and easy access to emergency doors which would help older residents feel safe at home.

"Along with existing regulations, this research can help inform the development of further guidance for those who plan housing for older people, ensuring that they have the comfortable, secure and accessible living space that they deserve," he concluded.

(JM)