Why Intergenerational Housing is Trending

It’s funny how old ideas sometimes come back around in a fresh form. Across time, communities have generally folded all ages in their households, with grandparents and extended family forming a matrix of shared household responsibilities and care. Somehow, the silo-ed American family in their single family dwelling took over the U.S. landscape with the idea that we all can be happier if we have our own space.

Social Support

It turns out that this has not been particularly good for anyone, including our elderly population. The Covid pandemic parenthesized in dramatic ways the effects of social isolation on declining mental and physical health. In a trend that has been gaining momentum since the 1990’s, a number of individuals and groups have worked towards an alternative vision that brings together older adults and younger people in some surprising and innovative ways. Some of these initiatives include common public spaces, shared meals, and mutual support services that bring residents into regular contact with one another in meaningful ways.

Community

Consider the H.O.M.E. Project in Chicago whose housing mission recognizes that “living in a community is as important as food and shelter.” They offer affordable housing for seniors with a number of units reserved for young families and for support staff who facilitate community events and activities. Arizona State University has created a 239-unit tower on its campus for those over sixty-two, putting older adults right into the middle of the action. In Kansas City, MO Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies supports grandparents raising their grandchildren, providing both after school support for youth and continuing education for seniors. In Reno, Nevada, a 2021 initiative will house young adults coming out of the foster care system with senior citizens in need of affordable housing. Monica DuPea, founder and executive director of the Nevada Youth Empowerment Project that will be sending its foster graduates, hopes the young can “tap on seniors for knowledge, wisdom, an ear, and just some guidance and support, whereas seniors can tap on youth for their youthfulness, like being able to run across the street to the store or get up and change the light bulb.” All of these projects point to the potential for the good to go both ways.

Spiraling Costs

Intergenerational housing has also taken off in urban areas where spiraling costs can make it difficult for young professionals to find reasonable rents. Local non-profits can match seniors with space to share in expensive markets with young adults needing a shoe-in. The National Shared Housing Resource Center provides a directory of such organizations around the country. Not only does the inter-generational home sharing help with costs but it also can be a source of help with maintenance, companionship and chores.

With the Baby Boomers advancing into their later years, these innovations offer creative ways to keep older people in their own homes, connected socially and sharing their accumulated knowledge and resources.

Remember that as you navigate all of life’s turns in the road, you can trust our legal team at Hillsborough Wills & Trusts to support you and your family as you Build Your Circle of Security.

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