Residential Normalcy in Later Life: A Life Course Perspective

Housing preferences and well-being in later life are shaped by accumulated life experiences, yet the mechanisms underlying these connections remain insufficiently understood. This study applies the theoretical model of residential normalcy to explore how life course dynamics contribute to residential comfort and mastery in later life. Results from life story interviews with 30 adults aged 60+ indicate that several domains of housing characteristics contribute to residential comfort: the living environment, architectural design, home technology, basic housing quality, use of space, residential status, and personal objects. Residential mastery involves the same domains of housing characteristics, with the exception of personal objects, architectural design, and basic housing quality. Findings suggest that residential comfort is more rooted in past experiences, while residential mastery rather reflects future-oriented aspirations. Reflections on past housing, living conditions, and major life events shape individuals' current housing preferences. Understanding housing through a life course lens offers valuable insights to designing housing policies and environments that support aging well, whether oriented toward comfort or mastery.