In general, more attention needs to be paid to the needs of older people living at home. Despite the increase in residential developments for the elderly and other types of new housing being proposed by architects, a large number of older people will continue to remain in their own homes. Therefore, it is critical to concentrate efforts on identifying and developing affordable adaptations for existing home environments. A system is needed for examining and evaluating the homes of older people to identify and prevent potential problems. Evaluation of existing products and retrofits is essential to deten-nine what works and what solutions are optimal.
Policy issues require attention.
For example, government or insurance companies could offer reimbursements or savings to individuals if they retrofitted their homes to make them safer and more manageable. Models are needed to encourage and permit better matching of specific available aids or retrofits with individual needs. More interdisciplinary efforts are required in research. Greater commitment is needed from business and industry in promoting products and housing for older people and supporting research efforts. Dissemination of Existing Information and Products Strategies with a nonmedical approach to marketing products and devices will assist in removing some of the stigma attached to the use of assistive devices.