AbstractThe expected growth in numbers of very elderly people, some of whom will be frail, in the United Kingdom and elsewhere may lead to a reappraisal of policies. It is argued that housing has a crucial role to play. Research evidence is presented that most elderly people wish to remain in homes of their own and ways in which this can be achieved are discussed. For those who wish, or have, to move, a number of options are outlined. These include ordinary small housing, living with a family, granny annexes, sheltered housing, extra care housing, continuing care communities and residential care. If elderly people are to live in an appropriate setting all professional groups need to cooperate.