Beyond Thresholds: The Everyday Lived Experience of the House by Older People

Abstract

To support decision making regarding modifications to the current housing stock, this article explores older people's everyday lived experience of the house in the Netherlands. Twelve in-depth interviews were carried out, using diaries and a topic list. The study found physical, personal and social dimensions of experience that turn a house into a meaningful place in which to live. Although the study focused on the experience of the house as a home, all participants spoke about the importance of the neighbourhood. We therefore suggest that a personalised approach should be adopted in any modification of the current housing stock.