People want to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. 

What sort of homes do we want to live in as we age and who will provide the services we require when we are less able to get out and about? Will we start to see people migrating back into the urban core, closer to essential services such as hospitals,
libraries, shops and community centres as they grow older? 

Within the NewcastleGateshead Urban Core Area Action Plan there is a focus on the potential growth of urban living. This includes growing the development of apartments to attract some medium/higher density homes, in an urban environment, that appeal to families as well as older people. 

The aim is to promote the development of a choice of homes of varying types and space standards while meeting identified need in the Urban Core. Building developments should take into consideration the needs of older people both now and for future generations. Developers and architects should be considering
lifetime homes if the aim is for people to continue living in the urban core throughout their lifespan.

How will services enter the home? What technologies, products and services can businesses offer for older people in the home and on the move? How will individuals pay for these services? What new financial models will develop as a result of the market for independent living?