OLDER people do not want to downsize and they do not want to move into specialist accommodation.

Just like their children and grandchildren older people want their home to have space to entertain and live in a nice area.

The "Rightsizing" Report, published, is urging planners and developers to shift their emphasis from downsizing to "rightsizing".

There is a lack of mainstream residential development that serves older people. The current focus on providing extra-care housing and age-restricted retirement living might be serving some groups, but these are not suitable for everyone.

The report was commissioned by Greater Manchester Combined Authority and funded by Centre for Ageing Better. It has been published today to coincide with Older People's Day.

The mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: "More action is needed if we are to meet the challenges of a fast-growing older population and make life better for us all as we age."

The report found the wealthier were more easily able to move to suit their needs but those on low or middle incomes were often trapped until a crisis forced them to move.