Introduction
The global elderly population is rapidly increasing due to advancements in medicine and rising life expectancy. By 2050, nearly a quarter of the world’s population will be 65 or older. This demographic shift is associated with a rise in chronic illnesses, physical limitations, and functional impairments. As a result, the needs and expectations of older adults regarding aging and residential environments have evolved significantly. Many countries are now promoting home and community-based care models as a means to improve quality of life for the elderly while reducing healthcare expenditures. This transition is reflected in the concept of “aging in place,” which emphasizes older adults’ preference to remain in their own homes rather than relocating to institutional care settings. Aging in place is linked to the ability to maintain independence and live a thriving and highly qualitative life within an individual’s environment. It can therefore be fostered by designing environments that facilitate the mobility and engagement in social activities, which are important components for the health and quality of life of older adults. There is also an opportunity for countries to exploit existing and new assistive technologies, another pertinent facilitator of aging in place. Aging in place is defined as “remaining to live in the community rather than in residential care, with some level of independence (e.g., receiving help from family members or caregivers), but without the need to move away from the community”. Most older adults prefer to age in place because it fosters their independence and autonomy, and enables them to stay connected to their social circle, which can reduce social isolation and loneliness. Apart from being a preference of older adults, it is often also considered less costly than care in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes or other assisted living facilities. This study aims to explore scientific perspectives and approaches related to aging in place within residential environments. By reviewing academic literature and identifying research gaps, the study seeks to enhance the understanding of elderly needs and guide future investigations in this domain and the impact of this factor on the peace and safety of the elderly and, consequently, the mental health of households and, consequently, society.
Methodology
The study employs a systematic review of scholarly literature on aging in place, with a specific focus on how residential environments affect elderly well-being. Articles were collected from major databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, using a set of targeted key phrases to ensure comprehensive coverage. Selection criteria were applied based on language, document type, and research area. A structured search and filtering process was implemented to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles. Data were coded and analyzed using Atlas.ti software to extract themes and insights, particularly regarding the role of housing design and physical space in supporting aging in place. This research did not limit the scope of aging in place to the architectural domain but also includes multidisciplinary findings. Furthermore, it explored scientific productivity and the intellectual collaborations of publications and researchers in the field of aging in place. Specifically, this study focuses on key aging in place concepts and presents a review of the theoretical and methodological trends.
Results and discussion
The review highlights three primary themes dominating the literature on aging in place: (1) intrinsic characteristics of older adults, (2) spatial features of the home environment, and (3) interactions between individuals and their surroundings. Frequently used terms included "health," "needs," "design," "housing," and "support," which reflect the interdisciplinary nature of the field. These terms suggest that aging in place encompasses psychological, social, physical, and environmental dimensions. The findings also indicate a steady increase in scholarly interest since 1999, with accelerated growth in the past decade. Key journals contributing to the discourse include International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and Sustainability, which have featured multiple studies in this area. Geographically, most publications originate from Europe, Asia, and North America, with significant contributions from institutions such as the University of Adelaide and the University of Florida. These institutions have shaped the academic conversation on aging in place and have helped position it as a vital research topic in public health and urban planning.
Conclusion
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of aging in place and underscores the importance of residential environments in supporting the health and autonomy of older adults. The key themes identified in the analysis illustrate the complex interplay between personal attributes, such as health status and caregiving needs, and external factors like housing design and community support. The increase in research output from 1999 to 2024 reflects growing recognition of environmental adaptation's role in aging successfully. Moreover, the study emphasizes the value of qualitative research methods, such as interviews and field observations, in capturing the lived experiences of elderly individuals. The insights gained can guide the formulation of inclusive design principles, supportive policies, and targeted interventions. By further investigating the intersection of aging, space, and care systems, future research can contribute to creating environments that enable older adults to thrive while remaining in their preferred living settings.