Â鶹ÊÓƵ

Canham, S. L., Richardson, L. R., Mahmood, A., Humphries, J., & Fayyaz, N. (2026). How an independent housing program supports older residents to age in the right place. International Journal on Homelessness, 6(2), 1–33.

Abstract 

Older adults experiencing housing precarity face barriers to aging in the right place (AIRP), particularly when affordable, accessible, and socially supportive housing is limited. We used an AIRP framework to guide an evaluation of how an independent housing program in Western Canada supports older adults. Through semi‑structured interviews with twenty-one providers and residents, we identified how built environments, onsite/offsite services, social integration, affordability, place attachment, and broader political-economic contexts shaped experiences. Walkable neighborhoods, transit and service access, and building amenities supported mobility and social connection, while accessibility renovations and unit personalization enhanced control and comfort. Although no formal onsite services were offered, partnerships and a resident advisory committee fostered social programming and informal support. Stable income‑based rents promoted security, though some affordability challenges persisted. Systemic gaps in home care, housekeeping, and social supports limited independence and threatened housing security as resident needs increased. Findings highlight the value of affordable, accessible housing paired with community‑building efforts while pointing to the need for increased onsite supports. This study suggests the AIRP indicators can provide a useful framework in evaluating housing programs for older adults. 

Read the full article .