Living Together in Old Age: Alternative Housing Forms in Trend!

Living Together in Old Age: Alternative Housing Forms on Trend!

It is a true classic and unfortunately very common: Older people mostly live alone. They lack social contacts, small outings in everyday life, opportunities to engage with others—basically, they lack everything that truly makes life worth living. Especially, and perhaps particularly, in old age.

But does it have to be that way? Alternative housing forms show that it can be different. True to the motto "Together one is less alone," there are various concepts where people come together and live under one roof. This has many advantages for everyone. Above all, the daily available social contact that counteracts loneliness in old age.

And the best part: Many concepts are even subsidized by the nursing care funds. We took a look at what alternative housing options are available for seniors, what advantages they offer, and which services are covered by the funds.

Alternative living arrangements – these are the possibilities

There are several different models that have proven to be practical and popular choices for older people.

The Seniors' Shared Apartment

Senior shared apartments are living groups for elderly people. In this model, depending on the residential property, about three to 12 roommates move into the unit together. Everyone has their own room. In addition, there are shared bathrooms, a common room, a dining room, and of course the kitchen. The special feature of the senior living group is the outpatient care and nursing that make everyday life possible for the residents. In many cases, a household help is also advisable.

Advantages:

• Social contact and exchange are present.
- Common routines like eating, playing, and chatting are part of everyday life.
- Independence in old age is maintained longer.
The residents appreciate the family-like atmosphere.

Subsidy:

• Seed funding for startups
• Measures and modifications for a care-appropriate living environment

Intergenerational Living

Living in a multi-generational house means, as the name suggests, that older people live together with younger people and often also with children. Whether it's one's own children and grandchildren with whom one chooses intergenerational living or other families altogether, in this housing model, each party usually has its own area and meets in common areas or dining rooms.

Advantages:

• Older people enjoy social contact and take on tasks in communal life – e.g., cooking or childcare.
Younger people have quick and approachable help in often stressful everyday life.
• The balance between family and career will be improved
• Seniors often receive valuable support and care from younger family members.

Subsidy:

- With the appropriate care level, costs for an outpatient nursing service
• Measures and modifications for a care-appropriate living environment

Assisted Living

Assisted living is an intermediate form between a traditional nursing home and independent living, providing seniors with maximum independence and autonomy. At the same time, there is an optional on-site care service available as needed, ranging from outpatient care to full inpatient care. Additionally, most residential complexes specialize in dementia care. Residents appreciate the well-maintained living environment, the social contacts next door, the good provision of services, and the safe feeling of having direct help in emergencies.

Advantages:

• barrier-free living environment and surroundings 
• Many social contacts locally
• Services such as catering, entertainment, and emergency call systems are often bookable
• Nursing service or nursing home usually in the immediate vicinity

Subsidy:

• Depending on the respective level of care
• The personal contribution is correspondingly high due to the pension.

Alternatives are becoming increasingly attractive for seniors

Alternative forms of living are becoming increasingly attractive for older people. No wonder. Loneliness within one's own four walls has an enormous impact on mental and physical health – and often does not represent a dignified retirement.

According to a study by the German Society for Quality*, 48% of all seniors prefer to live in an assisted living facility. 37% of all seniors prefer the idea of a multi-generational house. And 33% want to settle in a senior living community. A small portion of only 12% sees themselves aging in a nursing home.

These trends are showing positive effects. More and more senior shared apartments are forming, and more initiatives are starting intergenerational living under one roof. This helps everyone. At the same time, our older fellow citizens are experiencing more appreciation and zest for life. Even in old age. Just as it should be.

Jana Lorenz (last updated on 07/18/22)

Sources:

Classic and Alternative Living Arrangements for Seniors (n.d.). Retrieved on July 14, 2022
Special Housing Forms - Home in Old Age.  (n.d.). Retrieved on July 14, 2022
Project Brief (n.d.). Retrieved on July 14, 2022
DGQ Study: Senior Shared Housing Instead of Nursing Home (07/28/2015). Retrieved on July 14, 2022.
Assisted living communities. (abWG) - Bavarian State Ministry for Health and Care (n.d.). Retrieved on July 14, 2022
Residential Group Allowance (n.d.). Retrieved on July 14, 2022

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