‘Community’ key to coping with surge in senior citizens

Jaap van der Bijl, CEO of retail and residential specialist Altera Vastgoed, explains to Richard Betts of Real Asset Media that there has been a huge increase in demand for senior living accommodation in the Netherlands.

A demographic build up is creating a surge in people reaching retirement age whose increasing longevity means that there is insufficient supply of suitable accommodation.

Bijl emphasises that as such people may be frail, and sometimes lonely, it is important for them to remain part of their community but close to care. A well designed community also enables dementia sufferers to remain independent for as long as possible, he added.

Knowing in detail and accurately where the demand for accommodation is and having strong relationships with healthcare providers who can provide the operational expertise, are two key factors, Bijl says.

Click on the video to watch the full interview or listen via the podcast below.

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