Aging at home in France

Remaining at home while aging, without losing independence or worrying loved ones: this is the wish of many French citizens. However, it is necessary to have an adapted housing. More than 20,000 elderly people died as a result of a fall in 2024.

Public health challenge

As the presidential election approaches, maintaining independence at home is emerging as a major public health challenge. Adapting housing before an accident, better supporting families and supporting professionals: Vivalea presents five proposals to make aging at home a real societal choice.

Dangers of daily life

A fall can change an entire life. A slippery bathroom, a difficult-to-navigate staircase, a carpet that catches the foot... With age, these daily details can become dangerous. A fall can lead to hospitalization, accelerate the loss of independence and disrupt the balance of an entire family.

Statistics on falls

The figures from Santé publique France illustrate the scale of the problem. In 2024, 20,148 people aged 65 and older died as a result of a fall, while 174,824 hospitalizations were recorded. Compared to 2019, deaths have increased by 18% and hospitalizations by 20.5%.

Preventive measures

However, some risks can be anticipated. Installing grab bars, securing stairs or replacing a difficult-to-access bathtub with a level shower can help make the home safer.

Call to action

"The French have made their choice: to stay at home. It is up to public policy to make this choice possible before the fall, not after the hospital," says Stéphane Rakotoniaina, general director and co-founder of Vivalea.

Current progress

The problem is that the adaptations remain insufficient compared to the needs. In 2025, about 36,700 homes have been adapted thanks to MaPrimeAdapt, according to the National Housing Agency (Anah), while the national target is 68,000 per year.