Understanding heterogeneous preferences for community-based housing among older adults in China: a latent class choice analysis

Abstract

China’s rapidly growing ageing population fuels growing demand for healthcare. Yet institutional care facilities remains inaccessible to many. Policymakers have addressed this situation by emphasising community-based housing models that foster ageing in place. However, so far, the preferences of older people for the attributes of such community-based housing are not sufficiently known. This research performed a latent class choice analysis of Beijing survey data, identifying three distinct groups with differentiated housing preferences based on their health status, socioeconomic status, and current living situations. Respondents in the prosperous group exhibited preferences for spacious dwellings with professional healthcare. Respondents with physical disabilities favoured compact living spaces requiring healthcare to maintain their daily living. The marginal utilities for meal delivery services, dwelling location, and shared recreational spaces are highest among economically disadvantaged respondents. The findings of this study inform targeted community-based housing development for older people.