Conference chair: Catherine Foot, Director of Evidence, Centre for Ageing Better
With special guest host: Nick Knowles
We were pleased to co-host this conference with the Local Government Association
Our research finds that, when done in combination with necessary repairs, both minor and major home adaptations can improve a range of outcomes for people in later life and promote independence. It also highlights the significant personal and professional barriers to adaptations and repairs, including the clinical design of products, the complexity of access and the stigma attached to a product designed ‘for older people’.
This conference was for those interested in housing adaptations and repairs to discuss and debate these issues and stimulate action within the sector. More local areas, providers and health commissioners need to fund aids and adaptations in a timely manner to ensure people benefit from simple changes to their home. This event was intended to drive change within the sector and stimulate people who can make change happen to think of different solutions to enable more people to enjoy a good later life now and in the future.
The event launched the findings from our recent call for practice, undertaken by Care & Repair England, to find local areas that are delivering home adaptations and organising services in the most effective ways.
