Modern-day pensioners change in demand for retirement home comfort

Modern-day pensioners are far more likely to demand a home gym, smart speakers and an electric vehicle charging point than lace tablecloths and garden gnomes. A top-range home security system is a must-have for some 50 per cent of people over 65 while a third are now opting for remote-controlled heating systems.

A top-range home security system is a must-have for some 50 percent of people over 65 while a third are now opting for remote-controlled heating systems.

Some 54 percent of the baby boomer generation also demand walkin wardrobes, 53 percent require wet rooms, nearly half want kitchen islands, a third need wine fridges while 19 per cent insist on modern art for their walls.

But 78 percent rule out fluffy toilet seat covers and avocado bathroom suites while more than a half would rather have a window blind than a net curtain.

When it comes to tableware, the research by retirement community developers McCarthy Stone found 67 per cent of OAPs would not dream of using doilies, 58 percent would never lay out a lace tablecloth and almost three-quarters would not be seen dead using a tea cosy.

They are also less likely to have cheeky gnome statues in their gardens, with more than half consigning them to the skip.

Patterned carpets and pebbledash walls are also a no-no while fake flowers or fruit bowls are a thing of the past.

Minimalist kitchen designs are high on the list of demands while almost one in 10 buyers requests a home gym or at least a yoga practice area.

Stan Smolyar, from McCarthy Stone, said: “The over-65s are favouring stylish home environments they can tailor to their modern and vibrant lifestyles.”