In the heart of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, a groundbreaking study is challenging the status quo of social housing, with implications that could ripple through the construction and energy sectors. Thiago Henrique Castro Braga, a researcher from the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia’s Faculty of Architecture, Urbanism, and Design, has been delving into the resilience of homes in the face of an aging population. His work, published in Oculum Ensaios, which translates to ‘Oculum Essays’, is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about people, their needs, and the future of sustainable living.
Braga’s research focuses on Residencial Sucesso Brasil, a social housing complex that, like many others, was not designed with the specific needs of an aging population in mind. “The primary factor contributing to the diminished resilience of the residential units was the elimination of illuminating areas,” Braga explains. This seemingly small change has significant implications, not just for the residents, but also for the energy sector.
As the global population ages, the demand for age-friendly housing is set to skyrocket. According to the World Health Organization, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double from 11% to 22% between 2006 and 2050. This demographic shift presents a unique opportunity for the construction industry to innovate and adapt. Braga’s research suggests that simple, cost-effective renovations can greatly increase a home’s resilience, making it safer and more comfortable for elderly residents.
But the benefits don’t stop at the front door. Energy efficiency is a key component of residential resilience. Homes designed with aging in mind often incorporate features that reduce energy consumption, such as improved natural lighting and energy-efficient appliances. This is where the energy sector comes in. As more homes are retrofitted or built with these features, demand for energy-efficient solutions will increase, driving innovation and growth in the sector.
Braga’s study used two post-occupancy evaluation instruments: an impact questionnaire and a resilience ruler. These tools allowed him to assess the current state of the housing complex and identify areas for improvement. The results were clear: a collaborative relationship between architects, engineers, and residents is crucial for creating more resilient housing.
So, what does this mean for the future? Braga’s research could pave the way for a new approach to social housing, one that prioritizes the needs of an aging population and promotes sustainability. It’s a win-win situation: residents enjoy safer, more comfortable homes, while the construction and energy sectors benefit from increased demand for innovative, energy-efficient solutions.
As Braga puts it, “It is necessary and urgent to establish a collaborative relationship between architects and engineers and the residents of the residential complex to facilitate the construction of more resilient housing.” This call to action is not just for Uberlândia, but for cities around the world grappling with an aging population. The future of housing is resilient, sustainable, and people-centric. And it’s happening right now, in the heart of Minas Gerais.
