The Ageing Topic Group will meet in Paris, France on 6-7 March 2024, hosted by DELPHIS. Alongside best practice sharing on various issues, we will examine housing designed specifically for older women. We will also hear the results of research comparing housing provision and services for older people in different European countries.

Study visit: residence for women aged 60+

Once of the highlights of the meeting will be a study visit to Maison des Babayagas. Maison des Babayagas is a self-managed residence for older women, designed by Thérèse Clerc, a French feminist activist. The building was designed in consultation with future residents. Now, the six-storey building provides over 20 housing units for women aged 60 years and over.

Maison des Babayagas was created as an ‘anti-retirement home’, built on the concepts of autonomy and participatory democracy. The two common areas host activities for residents, who can also make use of a large garden.

Best practice sharing & comparative research

Alongside the study visit, a presentation by Charlotte Limousin will highlight DELPHIS’ work on services for older people. We will also hear a presentation on results from a comparative study from researcher Marion Ille-Roussel. The research compares housing and services for older people provided by public and social housing providers in France, Germany, and the UK.

We will examine a new typology for housing forms and compare ways to structure housing organisations around ageing considerations. Another key topic will be images of older tenants in public and social housing and tackling difficulties of interaction between the gerontology sector (social or health) and the housing sector.

How do I sign up?

The upcoming meeting will provide a wide range of insights to help us create age-friendly homes and communities. Members of Eurhonet can find the detailed agenda and register for the event in the Members Only Zone. If you are not yet a member of Eurhonet, find out about joining us.