ARCO has commissioned a review to identify the level of unmet need for housing with care for older people in the UK.
Professor Les Mayhew, head of Global Research at the International Longevity Centre (ILC), will look into the case for Integrated Retirement Communities (IRCs) and the scale of provision needed from now until 2038.
ARCO argues that IRCs, which integrate lifestyle facilities, onsite care and connections with wider communities, are one of the most effective means promoting independent living and meeting the needs of an ageing population.
Based on the available evidence to date, it is estimated that somewhere between 200,000 and 1,500,000 new units will be needed by 2038.
ARCO said the Mayhew Review will be devising a model and seeking evidence to go much further and to develop the most robust figure possible.
It is hoped that the review will inform government policy.
Professor Les Mayhew said: “We know that there are hundreds of thousands – possibly millions of older people across the UK who would like, at some point in their lives, to be able to access housing-with-care – but so far no one has undertaken a thorough analysis of just how many older people there might be in this category. The government is right to be prioritising this sector but policy can only be developed effectively based on research.
“The potential for this sector is huge – and it could transform the UK’s social care landscape, as well as supporting wider housing policy. I am delighted to have the opportunity to undertake this vital research and would welcome contributions from all stakeholders.”
Michael Voges (pictured), executive director of ARCO said: “We are delighted that Professor Les Mayhew has agreed to undertake an authoritative review of just how much unmet need there is out there.
“This review and its conclusions will have a profound effect on government policy and help to secure the quality of life of many more older people in the UK so that as we age as a society, we can look forward in hope to a happy, independent and secure retirement.”