June 2023
Living in an almshouse can boost life expectancy.
Living in an almshouse can boost the longevity of its residents by as much as two-and-a-half years compared to their counterparts in the general population, according to a new Bayes Business School report*.
Analysing up to 100 years’ worth of residents’ records from various almshouses in England, the research suggests that living in these communities can reduce the negative impact on health and social wellbeing which is commonly experienced by the older population in lower socioeconomic groups, particularly those individuals who are living in isolation.
The results are very encouraging. They show that, for several of the almshouses included in the study, residents can expect to live as long as wealthier members of the general population despite coming from the most deprived quintile. This shows that the disparity in longevity and health outcomes could be mitigated even after reaching retirement age, provided a suitable social infrastructure can be put in place.
The report concludes that almshouses could help the Government’s aims to reduce inequalities in mortality, which are observed between socioeconomic groups, by reducing the social isolation experienced by many in the older population.
Established in 1500 Uxbridge United Welfare Trust has been housing the local residents of Uxbridge for over 200 years and along with its other charitable activities, provides almshouse accommodation for elderly local people with housing need.
Ossulton Court, the charity’s brand new almshouse in central Uxbridge has 20 state of the art almshouses apartments built within a traditional almshouse courtyard.
Susan James Chair of the Trust said “We here have long witnessed the benefits of almshouse living, and it is quite rightly recognised. The quality of life and sense of wellbeing experienced by almshouse residents is second to none.
Contact
Contact dg@uuwt.org 01895 232976
Note to Editors
*A copy of the full report can be downloaded here: Study finds living in an almshouse can boost life expectancy (almshouses.org)
Bayes Business School (formerly Cass)
Bayes Business School is a leading global business school driven by world-class knowledge, innovative education, and a vibrant, diverse community. The School has been at the forefront of business education for more than 50 years, developing leaders who help businesses thrive through change and uncertainty.
Located in the heart of one of the world’s top financial centres, the School has strong links to both the City of London and the thriving entrepreneurial hub of Tech City.
Uxbridge United Welfare Trust
Uxbridge United Welfare Trust house people of state pensionable age who qualify for housing benefit. We have a large purpose built almshouse in central Uxbridge, that was completed in 2022. All our almshouse residents come from the Hillingdon Council housing list.
We look forward to welcoming all residents that are able to live independently in our safe and secure environment. The building has step free access to all apartments and is within 5 minutes walk of central Uxbridge and all its amenities.