Some years ago I was involved in an online database project. The database contains instructions on how to design homes and residential environments for the elderly and people with disabilities. Special needs of older people will be a challenge for societies and an opportunity for businesses.
A McKinsey study revealed that people over the age of 55 will drive two-thirds of all growth in consumer spending in France over the next two decades. The same will probably happen in many other European countries and Japan.
Seniors will use more services than younger age groups. The McKinsey study lists the following services that will get over 50 % of their spending increases from people over 55:
- Recreation
- Food at home
- Utilities
- Financial services
- Personal care
- Media and entertainment
- Food away from home
- Transportation services
- Housing
- Communications
It is not just the inevitable physical needs of aging that require special attention; social and emotional needs are equally important. Attending to the needs and desires of older people will be a big opportunity for businesses in all areas of design.
