Guidelines for the adaptability of housing to the changed requirements of weak users

The aim of this work was to analyse problems associated with the adaptability of housing to the requirements of "weak" users. Based on an analysys of the existing, the methodology defined provides a practical reference for those working in housing restoration.The integration of this projects into the surrounding area was also studied, starting from the consideration that they can only be effective if well interfaced with the wider urban-scale context. In particular, guide criteria were identified to evaluate the measures required in relation to the various types of disability and the distributive solutions and constructional techniques already existing in the home. The methodological approach developed through the use of guidelines is based on the consideration that the best solutions are those which allow the weak users to remain in their own homes, even if this necessitates the provision of home help, in order to avoid uprooting the individuals concerned and to reduce the costs to society resulting from long term hospitalisation. The work is part of a more complex panorama of housing policies being adopted by public administrations at a time when the demand for assistance has expanded greatly al all levels and the costs of satisfying it are no longer sustainable.