Adaptable Housing for the Aged Population: Case Study of Residences of Kumbanad, Kerala

With the growing aging population worldwide, demand for adaptable housing solutions that cater to the unique needs of older adults is increasing. The proportion of the elderly population aged 60 years and above increased from 5.5% in 1950 to 8.6% in 2011 and is projected to reach 19.5% by 2050 according to the UN Population Division (2019). In Kerala, this percentage is higher at 20% as per longitudinal survey of India 2020. Traditional housing designs often fail to accommodate the changing physical and cognitive abilities of the elderly, limiting independence and diminishing quality of life. This study investigated the key design principles of adaptable housing to support aging in place and independence focusing on residential spaces for the elderly in Kumbanad in Kerala, a region with high elderly population due to youth migration. The paper explores different approaches and points out the importance of the adaptability of residences to meet the varying needs of elderly. Using observational methods, the research evaluates existing homes in terms of safety, accessibility, and comfort. Through literature reviews, field observations, interviews with elderly residents, and architectural analysis, the research explores flexible design and spatial adaptations, highlighting gaps. Findings propose recommendations for modifications and policy reforms which also addresses the concept of sustainability. The study underscores the importance of adapting homes to support the aging population effectively taking Kumbanad as a case study along with challenges faced and the broader implications for developing culturally appropriate and sustainable elderly housing solutions.