New, familiar and alternative living models in old age
One of the biggest challenges in planning living in old age is to think about how to live independently and self-determined in old age. Traditional housing and age-friendly nursing homes are well-known options, but there are a variety of housing models that allow for a better quality of life and independence in old age.
Alternative living models, such as shared apartments or communal living in a house, are becoming more and more popular. In Germany, there are already a large number of projects aimed at accommodating older people in a community environment. Multi-generational housing is also becoming increasingly popular to promote intergenerational exchange and avoid loneliness in old age.
New technologies and innovations also offer alternative ways to make everyday living easier in old age. Smart home systems, such as intelligent sensors, respond to movement and help older people make their homes safer and automatically summon help in an emergency. Robotics systems that assist with care and provision are also becoming more advanced and could be a great help in the daily lives of older people in the future.
Alternative living models in old age: residential communities
An alternative living style for older people is shared housing for the elderly. Several people live in one apartment or house and share the rent as well as the costs for electricity, water and food. This kind of living together has the advantage that one can support each other and does not have to live alone in an apartment. In addition, organizing meals and activities together can save money and time.
Shared apartments in old age also offer the opportunity to establish social contact and friendships. Residents can plan recreational activities together, go on outings or simply talk in a comfortable setting. This is especially important as the risk of social isolation increases with age.
Shared apartments in old age can also be tailored to individual needs. For example, there are shared flats for gays and lesbians, for people of a certain faith or for people with certain interests. It is thus possible to live in a community where people feel comfortable and have similar interests.
- Pros:
- Sharing of rent and other costs
- Possibility for mutual support
- Joint organization of meals and activities
- Social contact and opportunity for friendship
Those who are interested in a shared apartment for the elderly can obtain information from various organizations and companies. There are now many providers and placement agencies that specialize in this housing model. The exchange with other people who already live in such a community can be helpful to get an idea of the possibilities and challenges.
Diversity through multigenerational living in old age
Multigenerational living is a new form of living for older people that is becoming increasingly popular. The idea is for different generations to live together under one roof and for people to live together as a community. This not only allows for better support of the older generation, but also for intense interaction and positive integration into society.
Multi-generational living also provides an important social exchange for older people and thus promotes their physical and mental health. Particularly important is also the aspect of a mutual contribution of different knowledge and skills. In this way, older people can pass on their knowledge and experience and the younger generation can be inspired by new perspectives.
- Another popular alternative to the classic retirement home is living in a shared apartment for seniors. Older people can live here independently of each other, but still benefit from the community.
- Assisted living, where older people live in a purpose-built residential facility, is also very popular. Here, the focus is on support and care for the residents.
- Another alternative is housing projects, which are often started by older people. Here, a vision of an alternative living model is being implemented together, in which the focus is on intergenerational togetherness.
Overall, then, there are many different housing models for older people, each individually designed to meet their needs. The possibility of multigenerational living offers numerous advantages in this regard, which can have a positive impact on society.
Assisted living – an alternative for seniors
Assisted living is a form of housing for seniors who want to maintain their independence but are still dependent on support. The concept includes a combination of barrier-free apartments, common areas and individual services. Residents thus have the opportunity to pursue their own interests and needs, while at the same time ensuring their safety and health.
One of the most important benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to live in a community. Residents can interact and spend time together without giving up their privacy. Through this, the connection to other people is maintained and loneliness is reduced. In addition, residents are offered help with managing everyday life through external service providers. This includes, for example, assistance with shopping, cleaning or medical care.
- Individual freedom in a community
- Support in everyday life by external service providers
- Improved quality of life through safety and health
Assisted living is an alternative for seniors who want to maintain an active and independent lifestyle despite their age and health limitations. It offers a sensible alternative to traditional retirement homes and care facilities and can be an attractive option for many seniors.
Tiny houses – an alternative form of housing for the elderly
The concept of Tiny Houses, or "tiny homes" in German, has become increasingly popular in recent years. Older people in particular see this alternative form of living as a way to remain in their familiar surroundings despite limited financial resources and increasing need for care. Because Tiny Houses are not only cheap compared to conventional housing, but also often adapted to the needs of older people.
For example, there are Tiny Houses that are barrier-free and have special care facilities. The possibility of building a Tiny House on a relative’s property is also an attractive option for many older people. Because this way you stay close to your loved ones and are still independent and self-sufficient.
- Tiny houses are affordable and adapted to the needs of older people
- Accessibility and care facilities make Tiny Houses attractive to seniors
- Tiny houses on the property of relatives allow independence and closeness to the family
However, those interested in a Tiny House as a way to live in old age should also consider the challenges. Because of the limited size, many things must be well considered and planned. Thorough advance planning is therefore essential. But if you get involved, you can not only save money as a resident of a Tiny House, but also live a freer and more self-determined life.
Senior living beyond the classic retirement homes
As we age, not only do our needs change, but so do our ideas about housing. Many older people want an alternative to the classic retirement home. House communities in old age are one option.
In such communities, several people live in the same house and share living space and care tasks. This can reduce costs and create new social contacts and a sense of community.
- No loneliness in old age
- More self-determination
- Lower costs through shared ownership
More and more seniors are opting for such living models. But many young people can also imagine living in a house community in old age.
Although there are still some reservations about such housing models, house communities in old age can provide an alternative to traditional aged care and enable independent living in old age.