The aim of this and the following two chapters is to illustrate the role of supported housing through the example of a particular ‘category’ of people. These examples enable a more detailed look at the specific models of supported housing available and their impact. The choice of examples has been made in order to show a wide spectrum of models and to illustrate the different factors that are at play. Each chapter begins with a discussion of the discourses that surround the ‘category’ in question and influence government policy as well as the behaviour and choices of individuals. This discussion will include mention of the factors that influence the identity, lifestyle and well-being of the individuals concerned. The chapters will continue with a description of policy towards the group in question in Britain and Sweden, and this forms the context for the discussion of the main models of supported accommodation available and their impact on the well-being of their residents. The conclusion will draw out the main implications of the discussion for our understanding of supported housing. Has the experience in the two countries shown us the factors important in influencing the type of provision made? Are there some models that seem to have a good impact on the well-being of residents in all contexts?

In this chapter the focus is on older people, who are by far the largest category in supported housing, and the older population is growing in most countries as people are living longer. The models they have access to are specific to this category and include examples from all the models discussed in Chapter One such as sheltered and extra-care housing, senior housing and retirement villages. Older people also make up a major group in institutional living and that experience was important in the general move towards community care. The size of the older population in general makes them an important group politically and it can be argued that their political power has resulted in them being well catered for compared with other groups we discuss in the book. This is helped by the high status that older people have in society compared to other groups.