Older self-funders of housing adaptations v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Processes, experiences, and outcomes for older adults who self-fund housing adaptations
IRAS ID
310404
Contact name
Xuemeng Li
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
As we age, moving around our homes safely may become more challenging, and installing adaptations such as stair lifts, wider doorways, and level access showers inside homes might be necessary for some people to be able to stay in their own home. In England, local councils cover most adaptations costing £1,000 or less, and public funding for those costing more may depend on someone's financial situation. More specifically, this includes personal needs, income levels, and whether it is realistic and possible to carry out the work in the building. However, applying for this funding may be challenging, as waiting times are long and it can be difficult to know where to find information about such services. Additionally, people who qualify for some funding may still be required to pay a portion towards their adaptations.
As a result, large numbers of people either put off or drop out of the application process; others have to find their own way of arranging their adaptations. There is very little previous research on this group since most studies have only looked at the experiences of people whose adaptations are funded by the state. I wish to find some of these people and talk to them about their experience and opinions, as well as their unique solutions to the problems moving around the home. I also want to understand how installing adaptations (or not) makes a difference to people. I will do this by conducting interviews but also by using questionnaires to understand the different steps and decisions that people make and how this affects them over time.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/LO/0580
Date of REC Opinion
23 Nov 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion