The Governing Council of the University of Toronto

Purpose

The number of Canadians aging in place is projected to increase in the coming decades. Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) standards are based on younger, working Canadians and they do not necessarily support health, comfort and well-being for seniors. This project will develop guidance on suitable indoor environmental conditions to support Canadians aging in place. The study comprises a literature review to establish knowledge gaps related to seniors’ perceptions of IEQ and how IEQ impacts their health; a survey process to determine occupant perceptions of their home environment and drivers for leaving their home; and a long-term nationwide monitoring campaign to establish actual in-home conditions. Collectively, the study components will provide a comprehensive picture of IEQ in Canadian homes and determine which type and level of interventions are required to better support Canadians aging in place.