Knight Frank recently reported that the UK over-65 population will reach 5 million by 2040 but the 6,000 homes becoming available annually isn't touching the sides of the 50,000 forecasted as being needed. A recent conversation with a contact in the later-living space is less concerned with the pace of building, however, noting that a major culture shift would be needed from the current target demographic if these new developments are to be filled.

I have strong memories of visiting my great-grandmother when I was about 4 years old in her final days at a care home in Wolverhampton. However, long gone are the days where these pieces of occupational real estate were essentially palliative care for the elderly, smelling of cabbage and disinfectant (I can still smell it now). My grandmother (my great-grandmother's daughter, in fact) has just ‘succumbed’ to residential care but, thankfully, it's quite a different rodeo in 2025. The Telegraph recently wrote on the boom of chic cocktail bars in Riverstone's establishments and gyms, pools and spas are now practically a given in the middle to upper end tiers of accommodation.

If I ever get the pleasure of retiring or, indeed, just get fed up of hoovering my stairs, you'll find me at the bar ordering a dry gin martini (three olives) after a Pilates class. Probably aged circa-55. 

Retirement villages: the millennials are coming for you…

I'll be at Bisnow's Later Living Summit in September to hear more about this one-to-watch sector. Let me know if you'll be there too!