Housing adaptations in the UK : scoping the evidence to support policy and practice

In the UK there is a paucity of research evidence to underpin the implementation of housing adaptations’ policy and practice with little knowledge of what works for whom, in what circumstances, and to what effect. While the UK Government has significantly increased financial support for adaptations, money may be wasted due to under-utilisation. A scoping review is presented outlining firstly, central government funding and secondly, the quality of research evidence. Findings indicate that housing design to meet the needs of older and disabled people requiring adaptations is under-researched; a lack of evidence for design recommendations, and whether they have been tested in-situ. The implications suggest the need for a rigorous testing of design guidance regarding housing adaptations such that installations are appropriate for the user and other family members to enable successful ageing in place. The findings provide important comparative information contributing to a body of international literature