The housing market is very competitive, which makes it hard for students to find cheap places to live. Every year, many students struggle to find somewhere to live because they don’t have much money. Intergenerational cohabitation is a new and different way to solve this problem. It helps young people and older people. Let’s take a closer look at this arrangement that works for everyone !
So, what actually is intergenerational cohabitation ?
It’s when people from different generations live together and help each other out. The idea is to offer a room to a student or young worker in the home of a senior. In return for this, the student or young worker gets a place to live, and the older person gets some company. This could be help with day-to-day chores or a small amount of money. Besides it helps younger people to find somewhere to live that is affordable, or sometimes even for free. It also means they can focus on their studies in a great place. And the older people get something back from it too. They get a friendly presence, company and help with day-to-day chores. This is good for both sides because it helps students and helps older people who might be lonely or who don’t have much money.
How does it work ?
This type of living together can be done in different ways, and both people must agree to all of them. If they need to, they can make a friendly agreement or a formal hosting contract to define each person’s rights and responsibilities. In this arrangement, the older person shares their home with the younger person, who has their own private space. The student may have to spend a set amount of time at home and help the older person with daily tasks (such as shopping, meal preparation, or help with admin or digital matters). In some cases, the student may also help pay for living expenses, but this is usually much lower than the usual rent.
Intergenerational cohabitation helps rebuild social connections and is, above all, a human and social experience. The most important part of this is that everyone supports each other. There are lots of positive stories about this kind of shared housing. There are organisations that can help students and seniors with this.
Source : bonjoursenior.fr
This organisation was created to help seniors find the right product or service for them. The site offers useful information, practical advice, and free connections with local professionals.
