Middle aged and older adults’ perspectives of their own home environment: A qualitative systematic review protocol

Review question What are middle aged and older adults’ perspective of their own home environment? Introduction The number of middle and older aged Australians is projected to grow steadily over the coming decades (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2018). The ageing of the population places immense pressure on public spending associated with the rising health costs and the ability of the health system to serve more numbers needing care (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2014). Based on the original qualifying age for the Aged Pension, people aged 65 and over are commonly classified as ‘old’ (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2014). Due to health, economic and social circumstances faced by all Australians, the diversity of the older Australian population results in a complex range of circumstances access the ageing spectrum. In 2020, 55 per cent of middle-aged adults over the age of 55 years old were retired (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2020). This age is the beginning of downsizing from the family home and consideration of appropriate accommodation for the years ahead (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2020). Whereas, for those aged 70 and over there are new or greater challenges associated with mobility, health and independence (Office for the ageing & Government of South Australia, 2021).