The Silent Taboo – Later Living In South Asian Communities

Monday 31 July 2023

Priya Aggarwal-Shah of BAME in Property and Bhavini Shah of Montagu Evans reflect on our latest event discussing how cultural diversity in retirement living can make a positive impact on our neighbourhoods.

Why has multigenerational living remained the preferred option in South Asian communities? And why is there such a taboo with exploring later living housing options in these communities?

These were some of the questions asked during a panel discussion with thought leaders at a BAME in Property and NLA event in London on Wednesday 19th July. The event was part of South Asian Heritage Month, which runs from 18th July to 17th August. Our esteemed panel included:

Priya Aggarwal-Shah, Founder and Director of BAME in Property Ltd (Chair)
Vinesh Pomal, Senior Architect at Butcher Bayley Architects
Tahera Rouf, Project Leader at RCKa
Lucy Hales, Head of Co-housing at Housing 21
Dipa Joshi, Partner (Residential Lead) at Fletcher Priest Architects

Priya Aggarwal-Shah (BAME in Property Ltd) and Bhavini Shah (Montagu Evans), one of the attendees, have summarised the key themes explored during the panel discussion in this blog, including:

The emotional and physical benefits of multigenerational benefits. From preventing loneliness for older family members to providing an important source of childcare, multigenerational living can be a necessity, as much as it can be a blessing.

The importance of listening and co-designing with communities to understand specific needs and preferences, and adapt homes in a culturally appropriate way.

Thinking about the location of later living homes and remembering the spending power of older people, often referred to as 'the grey pound', and the positive impact this can have on local economies.

Ensuring affordable later living options to reflect a diversity of wealth. Many ethnic minority communities are out-priced from later living options for this very reason, forcing them into overcrowded homes, rather than a positive multigenerational experience.

You can read the full piece here.