Via Instapundit, I found an article about age-restricted communities vs intergenerational living.
Main point: “‘I don’t know, if you asked people, if that’s what they want [age-restricted or intergenerational],’ said Susan Popkin, a fellow and housing researcher at the Urban Institute. ‘But we haven’t asked.'”
More about it:
- “Do older people benefit from living exclusively with other older people? That’s the standard model for senior housing of many configurations: independent and assisted living, continuing care retirement communities (also called life plan communities), 55-plus developments, subsidized affordable complexes.”
- “…surveys repeatedly show that most older people prefer to remain in their own homes as they age.” Leroy’s note: Organizations like Home in Place where I live and volunteer take on the mission of facilitating that aging-in-place idea.
- “Often…the sale of a house covers the costs. Low-income seniors have far fewer options.”
- “Yet research on whether age-segregated housing leads to improved health or quality of life is scant and dated; it’s not a subject that lends itself to controlled studies.”
- “…graduated communities allow residents to transfer to assisted living, nursing care or memory care units as their health declines.”
- “Creating intergenerational housing will require federal and local policy changes.”
Out of curiosity, I asked ChatGPT to compare the 2 kinds of communities. Here’s what I got back:
Age-restricted communities and intergenerational communities cater to different demographic preferences and lifestyle needs. Here’s a comparison of the advantages of living in each type of community:
Age-Restricted Communities:
- Similar Lifestyles and Interests:
- Advantage: Residents in age-restricted communities are often in similar life stages, leading to shared interests and lifestyles. This can foster a strong sense of community and make it easier to connect with neighbors.
- Quiet and Peaceful Environment:
- Advantage: Age-restricted communities tend to be quieter and more peaceful, as they typically have rules and regulations in place to maintain a serene atmosphere. This can be appealing to retirees or individuals who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.
- Amenities Catered to Seniors:
- Advantage: Facilities and amenities in these communities are often designed with seniors in mind, such as golf courses, walking trails, and health centers. This can contribute to a healthier and more active lifestyle for older residents.
- Safety and Security:
- Advantage: Security measures may be enhanced in age-restricted communities, providing residents with a greater sense of safety. This can be particularly important for older individuals who may have specific health or safety concerns.
- Community Exclusivity:
- Advantage: The exclusivity of age-restricted communities can create a more tightly-knit and supportive social environment. Residents may find it easier to relate to one another due to shared experiences and life stages.
Intergenerational Communities:
- Diverse Social Interactions:
- Advantage: Intergenerational communities offer a diverse mix of residents, including families with children, young professionals, and retirees. This diversity can lead to a more dynamic and varied social environment.
- Learning Opportunities:
- Advantage: Children and young adults in intergenerational communities have the opportunity to interact with and learn from older residents. This can create a rich learning environment and help break down stereotypes between generations.
- Community Engagement:
- Advantage: Intergenerational communities often have a stronger sense of community engagement, with residents participating in a wide range of activities and events. This can lead to a more vibrant and active lifestyle.
- Support System:
- Advantage: In intergenerational communities, there is a potential for a built-in support system. Older residents may receive assistance from younger neighbors, and families may benefit from the wisdom and experience of older community members.
- Varied Perspectives:
- Advantage: The presence of people from different age groups can lead to a more open-minded and well-rounded community. Varied perspectives contribute to a richer cultural and intellectual environment.
Ultimately, the choice between age-restricted and intergenerational communities depends on individual preferences and lifestyle priorities. Some may prioritize the peace and exclusivity of age-restricted communities, while others may value the diversity and social dynamics found in intergenerational communities.
#Generations