The number of people 65 and older is projected to reach 80 million by 2050, according to the U. S. Census Bureau. In order to gauge effectively the housing wants and needs of older Americans, the National Center for Seniors’ Housing Research recently launched the first National Older Adult Housing Survey (NOAHS). The annual survey will provide valuable housing information to builders, remodelers, product manufacturers, developers, researchers, marketers, strategic planners, and insurers.

NOAHS, which is currently in a pilot testing phase, poses similar questions to five consumer groups (all age 45 and over): adults who live in mixed age, age restricted, and assisted living communities, adults whose parents live in assisted living centers, and adults who live in the homes of their adult children. The survey asks about the home and community features that respondents currently have, and which they would add or pay more to have. Because of the diversity and breadth of the survey’s targeted population, it is expected to become a truly unique and invaluable resource for an industry that inevitably will have to adapt to this country’s changing demographics.

Last fall, the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) researchers conducted several focus groups of older adults in Phoenix, Chicago, and Fort Lauderdale to help determine the content of the survey questionnaire. During the process, recurring themes and issues emerged, is reflected in the survey’s design. Some are described below.

The need for a social network. Respondents wanted the ability to have frequent interaction with neighbors; saw it as a base for forming friendships.
• Don’t fence me in. There was a strong desire expressed to have access to undeveloped, open space, scenic vistas, and natural resources.

• Location, location, location. Most respondents wanted easy access to shopping, restaurants, and other entertainment, as well as healthcare facilities.

• Interior home features considered important included adequate lighting, especially in the kitchen, ample storage space, and accessible cabinets.

• Exterior home features considered important included low maintenance building materials and lawn care requirements, adequate lighting, and garages (in suburban areas).

Results of NOAHS will be released in May 2002. For more information on the activities of the National Center for Seniors’ Housing research, go to the NAHB Research Center website, www.nahbrc.org, and click on "Seniors."

Published: May 28, 2002

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