The Effects of Elderly Household Characteristics on Residency in Universal Design Housing

Abstract

Korea is facing the impending transition into a super-aged society, where over 20% of the total population is comprised of individuals aged 65 and older. In this trend, housing for the elderly is one of the most important issues for stable retirement design. This study examines the living conditions of elderly households aged 65 and above in Korea, focusing on low-income and disabled households, which are considered vulnerable groups. To accomplish this, we analyzed empirical data from 2020 Korea Housing Survey using binary logistic regression. The findings confirm that low-income and disabled elderly households are the most vulnerable group concerning their residence in housing with universal design. These households tend to live in homes with insufficient universal design, and face challenges in meeting their daily needs while enduring poor living environments. This study provides policy implications for the application of universal design in housing for Aging in Place (AIP) of the elderly households, whose numbers are expected to increase significantly in the future.