The government is attentive to the repercussions of demographic change, notably those that are the result of the ageing of the population. Even though the birth rate is more vigorous in France than in our neighbouring European countries, the ageing of the population is a strong tendency that seriously raises the question, with regard to housing, of its adaptation to the needs of people who wish to remain as long as possible in their own home and therefore have specific requirements in terms of the quality of their housing and the environment in which they live, as well as in terms of the preservation of their autonomy and access to services.
In considering the relationship between the ageing of the population and housing, there is also a need to address the question of the inter-generational mix in housing in order to ensure that those who demand to be allowed to live at home do not fall into the trap of being isolated on the one hand, or of only living with other elderly people, on the other.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for having accepted the task of leading a reflection that will have the aim, notably with a view to the forthcoming Community level work on housing, to identify innovative avenues designed to make housing a point of convergence for the requirements of social and territorial cohesion.
You will establish the main lines of a practical doctrine that will make it possible to implement the most promising innovations at the service of the elderly. You will address, in particular, the situation of those who, according to a recent report published by the Abbé Pierre Foundation, find themselves in a precarious position. You will take into account the experiences of the actors of “affordable” housing in this field, the housing associations, both in the private sector and the social housing sector.
The adaptation of the environment in which the elderly live may, in particular, be based on a design methodology that seeks, first and foremost and by looking beyond current and accepted practice, to place the person at the centre of the design process. The improvement of the quality of usage may, therefore, be of benefit to everyone and notably to people with a disability.
You will therefore attempt to promote this design for all approach. Since there is no housing policy without territorial anchoring, you will be attentive to the strategies undertaken at the territorial level and to the relationships that are created at this level between the territorial authorities and the State. In carrying out your mission, if necessary, you will be able to call upon the services of the department for planning, housing and nature.
I would like to ask you to draw up a progress report by the end of April and to submit your definitive conclusions by the end of June.
Signed Christine Boutin
Crédit 