Integrated Service Areas: An Innovative Approach to Housing, Services and Supports for Older Persons Ageing in Place

Abstract

ABSTRACT As the number of older people increases, the need for housing and services grows. A unique project, started in northern Europe, provides a platform for sharing best practices, within appropriate cultural contexts, for supportive local housing for a range of needs. These Integrated Service Areas (ISAs) provide a range of co‐located and locally integrated services in small communities. This paper presents preliminary research that points towards greater satisfaction, feelings of security and longer housing independence among those living in ISAs compared with other elders. We argue that ISAs represent a useful example of possible housing arrangement for older people and that similar projects in different cultures could be implemented in order to improve the quality of life and housing for older persons. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.