60

This article proposes creating a connection between the residential process and public policies regarding collective housing, such as sheltered housing. It examines the individual choices related to accessing collective housing for elderly people, through the prism of national policy direction. This highlights the potential impacts of public policies regarding sheltered housing on elderly people’s lives. After a short introduction to sheltered housing and public policies relating to it, the article defines the reasons for joining these establishments, followed by its limitations, characterized by barriers to entry. These elements are seen in the context of regulatory obligations regarding public policies on sheltered housing and the recent evolution of French legislation. The results are based on a collection of qualitative data gathered during a doctoral research. The article is mainly based on interviews conducted with elderly people and managers of the establishments, as well as providing an analysis of legal and operational documentation.