Gerotopia: Risky Housing for an Ageing Population

Abstract

This article explores the influence that baby boomer lifestyle preferences are having on housing landscapes as they enter retirement. The analysis focuses on the emerging phenomenon, in Australia and New Zealand, of Active Adult Lifestyle Communities (AALCs). Using theories of the good life and risk to frame the analysis, I investigate the impacts of AALCs in the US and provide critical insights into the planning and provision of housing for an ageing population. Research finds that AALCs are marketable commodities and that they also have a positive contribution to make to the health and wellbeing of residents. However I raise questions in regard to equity concerns and the sustainability of these types of developments.