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Creating Community: Exploring the Vital Connections of Intergenerational Living

By Ria Madan

In today’s society, two crucial issues are becoming intertwined: the rising costs of student housing and the increased social isolation of older adults in senior living communities. A creative solution that aims to tackle both these problems is intergenerational living, where students and seniors share living spaces. This approach not only provides affordable housing for students, but also fosters a sense of companionship for older adults, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

The Intergenerational Living Model: How It Works

The intergenerational living model offers two primary solutions. The more common one is Home Sharing, where students in need of affordable housing are paired with older adults who have extra space. In exchange for reduced rent, students can offer companionship or assistance with household chores. This allows older adults to combat loneliness and social isolation by gaining companionship, while students receive housing at a lower rate compared to dorms or high-rent apartments. 

The second model allows students to live in senior care communities or retirement homes at a reduced cost in exchange for volunteering for a certain amount of hours. These students volunteer by engaging with the elder residents through activities such as conversations, and assistance with everyday tasks. This not only creates an affordable living option for students, but also fosters deep emotional connections between the younger and older generations. 

Benefits to Society: Addressing Two Crises at Once

The benefits of intergenerational living extend beyond the financial relief for students. For older adults, social isolation is a growing concern, especially as their mobility decreases or after the loss of a spouse or close friend. Studies have shown that social isolation can lead to mental health decline, including depression, and even physical health risks like increased blood pressure or weakened immune responses. Living with younger students offers seniors regular social interactions, which can significantly boost their mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness. 

On the other hand, student housing crises have reached critical levels in many cities, where the demand for affordable housing far exceeds the supply. Rising tuition costs and increased rent places an enormous financial burden on students. Through this program, students can alleviate these financial pressures, focus on education, and, in turn, provide meaningful companionship and assistance to their senior housemates. But beyond the affordable housing, students can gain valuable skills like empathy and a better understanding of older generations. Furthermore, intergenerational programs have positively affected students, including improved academic performance and reduced anxiety. 

Successful Integrations of Intergenerational Living

Several successful intergenerational living initiatives worldwide demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating students and older adults under one roof. These case studies show how intergenerational living can be a mutually beneficial solution to housing shortage and social isolation.

  • Canada HomeShare (Canada): The Canada HomeShare Program, which began as the Toronto HomeShare Pilot Project in 2018 has seen major success and expanded into multiple cities including Vancouver, Kingston, and Edmonton. It matches students needing affordable housing with seniors who have extra space, allowing students to pay reduced rent between $400-$600 monthly in exchange for five to seven hours of companionship or household help each week. Both groups have reported improved relationships and trust through the program which also helps to build stronger community ties. 
  • Humanistas Retirement Home (Netherlands): The Humanitas Retirement Home has allowed university students to live rent-free in exchange for 30 hours of volunteer work each month. The students provide companionship and organize activities for elderly residents. This model has proven mutually beneficial, reducing loneliness for seniors while offering students affordable housing. The integration of students has positively impacted the resident’s mental health, while students gained life skills. 
  • Judson Manors (United States): In Cleveland, Ohio, Judson Manors, a senior living community, allowed graduate students from the Cleveland Institute of Music to live alongside seniors at a reduced rate. In exchange, the students performed concerts and participated in events for the residents. This program has fostered deep connections between the younger and older residents, enhancing the quality of life for seniors, and giving students a unique living arrangement where they can focus on their studies while engaging with the community. Judson Manors has received national attention for its success in reducing isolation and improving well-being among older adults. 

A Growing Trend

As the housing crisis worsens in many cities, intergenerational living is becoming a popular and effective solution. With programs like Canada HomeShare scaling up across the country, and universities launching more intergenerational housing projects, this model could become a significant part of the solution to both housing shortages and the social isolation of older adults. 

By addressing the unique needs of both demographics, intergenerational living is providing a win-win solution for today’s housing crisis and social challenges. This model not only eases financial burdens on students but also strengthens community ties to create a more connected and supported society. 

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