Many schemes have communal areas such as a lounge and/or garden where tenants can socialise. Many sheltered housing schemes are open only to people aged 60 or over although some accept people from the age of 55. This age restriction however is changing as the deciding factors in offering potential residents accommodation is being widened as a means to accept that being vulnerable and in need of support is not always age related. There is generally no upper age limit, the deciding factor instead being whether the person is independent enough to look after themselves or if they need care. A number of housing associations are now considering the rising need for this type of accommodation and are adding suitable accommodation in plans for their new social housing developments. Many of these developments are entitled to apply for funding from local governments to provide suitable housing for the more vulnerable members of the community

Modern Indian multi-storied bungalow in affluent area near Bangalore, India.

A typical side-gabled bungalow in Louisville’s Deer Park Neighborhood, United States.

Bungalows in Atlanta’s Inman Park neighborhood, United States.

Bungalows in the Belmont-Hillsboro neighborhood of Nashville, United States.

Extra care sheltered housing (aka "very sheltered" or "assisted living") schemes provide a greater level of access and mobility for frail older people, with a domiciliary care service and personal care element being available within the scheme alongside the manager. In addition meals are usually provided and as they are eaten in the communal dining room it provides an opportunity for social interaction and combats loneliness.

Turf houses in Keldur, Iceland.

Turf house in Sænautasel, Iceland.

Turf house in Sænautasel, Iceland. Inside view showing the turf layers on the walls.

Earth sheltering is the architectural practice of using earth against building walls for external thermal mass, to reduce heat loss, and to easily maintain a steady indoor air temperature. Earth sheltering is popular in modern times among advocates of passive solar and sustainable architecture, but has been around for nearly as long as humans have been constructing their own shelter.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia : Sheltered