Housing Needs Across All Ages and Life Stages

Timothy Murphy, AARP Public Policy Institute

Published February 10, 2026

A diverse family eating a meal outside on a fenced in patio

As people age, their housing needs change based on such factors as household composition, caregiving responsibilities, finances and mobility. Yet in many US communities, housing options remain limited.

This Housing for All Ages infographic illustrates how a range of housing options can respond to these evolving housing needs. Using one family’s experience, the infographic highlights the importance of expanding housing choices—from accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and duplexes to multifamily and senior housing—to strengthen housing supply, promote age-friendly communities, and ensure residents can remain connected to family, services, and opportunity as they age. Explore the full infographic.

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Murphy, Tim. Housing for All Ages. Washington, DC: AARP Public Policy Institute, February 10, 2026. https://doi.org/10.26419/ppi.00387.001

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Housing for All Ages: An Infographic

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