As the American population ages, the report from AARP highlights a mismatch between the desire to remain in familiar homes and available housing options. A significant majority of older adults prefer to stay in their own residences and communities as they age, yet many worry that their current housing situations won’t cater to their future needs.

“Historically, housing in our country has been geared towards younger families,” explained Rodney Harrell, AARP’s vice president of Family, Home, and Community. “However, projections from the Census Bureau indicate that by 2034, we will have more individuals over the age of 65 than those under 18. Many individuals are trying to adjust to what is available, but we simply don’t have appropriate options for the majority.”

The AARP’s 2024 Home and Community Preferences Survey, conducted over the summer, surveyed more than 3,000 adults in the U.S. The findings reveal that 75% of participants wish to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible while aging, aligning with previous research findings.

Despite this desire, half of the respondents expressed uncertainty about whether their communities would continue to serve their needs as they age, and 44% foresee needing to move in the future, primarily due to the search for more affordable housing. The report highlights that 11.2 million older adults allocated over 30% of their income towards housing costs in 2021, yet only 36.5% of those eligible received federal housing support.

Notably, 59% of respondents aged over 50 who doubt their communities will suffice expect to relocate, but 41% plan to remain in their current homes regardless.

While many older Americans acknowledge the need for home modifications to facilitate aging in place, there is a pronounced disparity between the most recognized changes—such as bathroom renovations, anticipated by 72%, and accessibility upgrades, recognized by 71%—and others. For instance, only 30% plan to move bedrooms or bathrooms to the ground floor, and a mere 28% foresee enhancing lighting in their homes.

Furthermore, the survey identified various technological hurdles faced by many older Americans. Approximately two-thirds indicated the necessity of medical alert systems, while 44% believe smart security features would help them live safely and independently. However, challenges related to broadband access and affording technology persist, particularly for those in rural areas.

To ensure that millions of older Americans can thrive while aging at home, AARP’s Harrell emphasizes the need for a unified approach across all sectors.

He urges the industry—including real estate, homebuilding, and remodeling sectors—to recognize the necessity for their involvement in this issue, stating, “It’s essential that we address these gaps and actively engage with people to provide the help they need.”

AARP seeks to share the results of this survey with decision-makers. The organization endorses various policy measures, such as affordable housing initiatives like the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) and the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, as well as fostering the construction of “accessory dwelling units,” commonly referred to as “granny flats” or “in-law units.”

“I hope both homeowners and renters will take this report to heart and understand they are not alone in this struggle,” Harrell said, “and that many individuals, including ourselves or our parents, are grappling with these tough choices.”