As a landlord in the UK, staying attuned to shifts in the private rented sector (PRS) is crucial for ensuring your properties remain competitive and desirable. One of the most notable changes in recent years is the increasing age of tenants within the PRS. While younger renters have traditionally dominated this market, a growing number of middle-aged and older adults are now choosing or needing to rent. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for landlords.
Population ageing in the UK
According to the Office for National Statistics, the UK’s population is ageing projections suggest that by 2072 around 27% of the population will be over the age of 65. By contrast, 50 years ago in 1972 there were around 7.5 million people aged 65 or over, or 13% of the population.
Scottish population ageing faster
Scotland’s older population is increasing faster than in other parts of the UK. The country’s overall population is projected to increase from 5.3 million to 5.7 million by 2039 – with an 85% increase in those aged 75+. The country also has poor health and low life expectancy when compared with other economically similar nations, raising unique questions about the future of social care and health policies.
Age of tenants in the Scottish PRS
In the most recent Scottish Household Survey people aged between 35 and 59 made up 37% of the PRS and over 60’s made up 11% and the average age of tenants in the PRS is increasing.
Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Affordability pressures: Many individuals in their 30s, 40s and beyond, face challenges saving for a deposit to buy a home.
- Lifestyle preferences: Some older renters prefer the flexibility of renting, especially if they are downsizing or relocating.
- Longer working lives: With people working into their late 60s and beyond, renting remains a practical option for mobility and convenience.
- Family changes: Divorce, separation, or children leaving home can prompt older adults to move into rental properties.
In some recent research by the University of Stirling, 85% of older adults would rather stay at home than move into supported residential care but only 10% of UK homes are equipped to support people living with physical or cognitive impairments.
Considering an aging tenant demographic isn’t just about responding to market changes, it also makes strong commercial sense. Older renters often bring stability, reliability, and a commitment to maintaining the property. By making strategic adjustments and embracing the needs of this growing demographic, landlords can ensure their properties remain desirable and competitive in a changing market.
By investing in accessibility, comfort, and security, savvy landlords can position their properties as desirable choice for the increasingly important older tenant demographic.
If a landlord is looking at refurbishment, then there are ways of adapting existing properties that do not require a huge budget and can be easily achieved, some very basic concepts are listed below:
Contrast:
Using contrasting colours to differentiate between different parts of the environment can make it easier to see where one object ends and another begins.
Furnishings:
Seating is sturdy, with arms to support people when sitting down and getting up. Furniture is stable and sturdy enough to support leaning.
Electrics:
There are plenty of plug sockets installed at knee height or higher to reduce bending. Appliances in the kitchen are at waist height, with simple controls that are clear, high-contrast, and easy to use.
Light:
Most people will find that they need to add more lighting or brighter lighting as they age. This is a result of age-related changes in the eye and means that an older person may need twice as much light as a younger person to see clearly. Consider fitting multiple light sources to provide overall and spot lighting (e.g. lights at the top and bottom of stairs, with extra lights as needed).
Cognition:
In kitchens, cupboard units with glass doors and external handles help people with cognitive impairment by reducing how much they need to rely on their memory to find what they need.
Access:
Consider walk-in showers and wet rooms with non-slip floors to create an attractive space where people can take care of themselves without the risk of slips, trips and falls. All flooring is clear of trip hazards and easy to navigate.
A great resource is the Designing Homes for Healthy Cognitive Ageing (DesHCA) website.
The importance of safe, appropriate and comfortable homes for older people cannot be overstated – these elements are fundamental to maintaining health, a sense of community and independence in later life.
