A serious consideration of housing forms for the elderly is long overdue. What concepts comply with the needs and wishes of the older generation? In the current issue of Detail, we present various housing developments for senior citizens. The cultural background ranges from Japan to Switzerland, from Paris to Frankfurt and London, and a question is addressed that arises in all industrial nations. Typologies of homes for seniors are documented here that offer various levels of care in forms that range from dwelling clusters to solitary buildings integrated in the urban landscape.

Health centres that provide special medical support and that contain communal zones are discussed as well as subsidized housing that offers old people – whether in wheelchairs or not – scope to find happiness within their own four walls. Our editorial team has taken a closer look at the Erika Horn care home in Graz, for example, as well as the Padre Rubinos social centre in Corunna. The views of residents there reveal how successful housing concepts can have a direct impact on the lives of people in advanced years. We hope these themes may be of inspiration to you in this field.