Green Senior Living Growing as America Ages

Green living and housing for Seniors is growing, as America ages. Although it is being developed to conserve both energy and money, it can have good affects on everything from asthma to prolonged living for the elderly. This type of living has recently began to become very popular. Senior housing developers must be certified by the US Green Building Council.

For years Seniors have been very conscious about "green living." They have recycled materials and found ways to reuse other items. They collect aluminum cans for drives and are considerate when it comes to items like car batteries, tires, clothes and plastic products.

Now many of them are looking at Senior housing that takes advantage of green technology in housing. Many Seniors remember the drives, that were held during the war years. They realize the importance of recycling and conserving. They have a strong appreciation for housing that uses recycled material.

As America ages, there is a need for more Senior housing. Many Seniors sell their old homes and move into one level homes that are easier to maintain. Many Seniors enjoy living with friends their own age. It is a lot easier to socialize with people their own age.

A Leed certification through the US Green Building Council can help with low emission materials that are healthier for Seniors. Dual flush toilets can conserve water. Skylights placed in key areas can provide safer lighting for walking traffic inside homes. Double panel windows keep a house warmer from cold winter drafts.

Then there is the ventilation systems that cut down on pollen and allergens that can enter a home through the air. New filters and an air system, that keeps bringing in clean air is great for Seniors that suffer with asthma problems. Environmental design is becoming one of the most important aspects in modern home design.

Senior housing offers an opportunity for green developers, to explore and experiment with green design. With such a strong emphasis on green living, developers can corner the market on new technologies.

The USGBC can assist developers with reducing greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for changing climate conditions. They continually review and evaluate new data in green housing development. This type of housing development is appreciated by many Seniors. It is a throwback to the days, that many of them remember. When the conservation and recycling, of materials, was very important to the success of a war.

sources; www.usgbc.org, Buildings and climate change