PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION FOR SENIOR HOUSING: ANALYZING TWO DECADES OF SCHOLARLY RESEARCH

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable and efficient housing solutions has led to an increased adoption of prefabricated construction methods within the building industry. This approach is particularly relevant in senior housing, where sustainability, accessibility, and adaptability are critical considerations. Prefabrication, characterized by the off-site manufacturing of building components for on-site assembly, presents significant advantages, including cost reduction, improved quality control, faster construction timelines, and a lower environmental impact. However, integrating sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and eco-friendly practices into prefabricated senior housing remains a challenge. This study conducts a systematic literature review to examine the current research landscape on prefabricated construction for senior housing with an emphasis on environmental considerations, associated obstacles, and key benefits. A comprehensive search of academic databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, was undertaken to identify peer-reviewed studies published over the past two decades. From an initial pool of literature, 40 key studies were selected, encompassing research from diverse geographic regions such as China, the United States, Australia, and Europe. These studies were analyzed using qualitative data analysis to identify recurring themes, including resource efficiency, space optimization, energy conservation, material sustainability, and carbon footprint reduction. The findings categorize key areas of focus within prefabricated senior housing, including structural sustainability, architectural innovations, design adaptability, and mobility-oriented housing solutions. This review highlights best practices for integrating sustainability into prefabricated housing and proposes strategies for overcoming existing challenges. By synthesizing insights from global research, this study contributes to the advancement of environmentally responsible and cost-effective housing solutions that address the evolving needs of aging populations while reducing the ecological impact of the construction sector