Towards assessing the impact of circadian lighting in elderly housing from a holistic perspective

In Finland the social and health care sector is undergoing major changes. The percentage of elderly population is growing due to longevity and low birth rates. Twice as many elderly need to be taken care of with the current amount of human and economic resources. New housing options to better support elderly and their family members have to be developed. The aim of the ongoing project is to develop a new model of a service block, with integrated care and housing. Pilot projects are developed in different size municipalities with several stakeholders. Local housing options are studied with attention to the user empowerment. Master level students in architecture will do their thesis in ten of the municipalities. The result of the project is a vision and a new model of elderly housing. The model will adapt to different size municipalities and will promote efficient use of existing infrastructure. It takes into account future resources and trends developed together with the stakeholders. The physical, psychological and social rehabilitation of the resident is a key concept in the model. It will also address the financial sustainability. The results of the project will improve the knowledge base of housing for elderly people. The service block model will be situated in centre of the municipalities near services and public transportation. The project will enhance the social wellbeing and integration of elderly in the society. It will provide the municipalities tools to develop their planning and concrete building projects. It will have societal impact nationally.