Good-quality, safe and affordable housing is vital for the health and independence of older people in Calderdale. This Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) explains how housing, ageing and health are connected. It describes current challenges and sets out priorities for future planning and services.
An ageing population
Calderdale's population is ageing quickly. By 2041, almost half of residents are expected to be aged over 50. Around one in four people will be aged 65 or over.
Many older people are living longer and healthier lives. However, around one in three report difficulties with everyday activities. This increases the need for homes that are suitable, adaptable and well supported.
Housing and health
Most older people want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. This is only possible if homes are warm, safe and easy to move around in.
Poor housing can harm health. Cold, damp, overheating and poor access can all increase health risks. These problems raise the risk of falls, breathing problems and heart conditions.
In Calderdale:
- Poor housing costs an estimated £3.9 million each year in health costs.
- When wider social impacts are included, the cost rises to around £10 million a year.
- Falls are a serious concern. In 2023/24, there were 890 emergency hospital admissions for falls among people aged 65 and over. This is higher than the England average.
- Cold homes and low energy efficiency remain major risks, especially for older people on low incomes.
Housing conditions and tenure
Most older people in Calderdale own their homes, either outright or with a mortgage. Many struggle to pay for repairs or adaptations. This is common among people on low incomes, even when they own their homes.
Housing conditions are generally good in social housing. However, standards are much poorer in parts of the private rented sector. Calderdale has the highest proportion of non-decent privately rented homes in England. Many of these homes contain serious safety hazards.
Inequalities
Housing-related risks are not shared equally. Older people in more deprived areas are more likely to live in poor-quality housing. They are also more likely to experience fuel poverty and have fewer housing options.
Around 6,800 residents aged 60 and over live in poverty. Almost 16,000 older people are affected by fuel poverty. These issues vary widely between different wards across Calderdale.
Housing need and future planning
Demand for specialist and supported housing is rising. Local strategies aim to:
- Increase the number of adaptable homes that meet national accessibility standards
- Maintain Extra Care and supported housing
- Improve energy efficiency and prepare homes for climate change through retrofitting and new building
- Support older people who choose to move to more suitable homes, often called “rightsizing”
Support for older residents
Several local services help older people to live independently, including:
- Gateway to Care, which provides advice and access to adult social care
- Accessible Homes Agency, which supports home adaptations and Disabled Facilities Grants
- Healthy Homes Service and Green Doctor, which offer advice on energy efficiency, home repairs, fuel poverty and winter support
What residents say
Local feedback shows that most older people want to stay in their current homes. Many are willing to make adaptations if they need them.
Awareness of other housing options is low. A lack of suitable alternative homes contributes to under-occupation. This reduces the number of larger homes available for families.
Key message
To support healthy ageing in Calderdale, good-quality housing is essential. Homes must be energy efficient, safe and adaptable. Action is needed to reduce poor housing and inequalities. Older people also need clear information, real choice and the right support to live independently for as long as possible.
For the full JSNA, please read:
