Intergenerational Shared Housing: Benefits for Seniors and Students Alike

Picture a unique living arrangement where a senior and a student share a home. In high-rent cities, this intergenerational homeshare is gaining popularity. Here's why it works.

Intergenerational Homeshare: Connecting Generations

In major cities with skyrocketing rents, students seek affordable options, while many seniors face isolation in spacious homes. Intergenerational shared housing addresses both needs: a senior offers a room at low or no cost to a student, who provides companionship and light help—like shared meals, chats, walks, or activities.

This setup benefits both parties:

• For seniors: It combats loneliness and provides assistance with tasks like cooking, gardening, shopping, or minor DIY.
• For students: Affordable or free housing on a tight budget, plus enriching interactions with older generations.

Legal Framework for Intergenerational Homeshare

Since November 2018, France's ELAN law regulates this with a "solidarity intergenerational cohabitation contract." Seniors and students can customize terms, ideally with guidance from an association.

Four Tips for Successful Cohabitation

To thrive in this arrangement:

• Partner with associations: Organizations like Ensemble2Générations, CoSI Network, or Pari Solidaire match roommates and assist with contracts and advice.
• Set clear house rules: Discuss lifestyles, schedules, and expectations upfront, just like any shared housing.
• Define services: Agree on tasks like shopping, meal prep, cleaning, walks, evenings together, gardening, or repairs before moving in.
• Stay open-minded: Embrace the chance to learn from each other—this unique experience fosters growth and connection.

Ditch traditional young-only flatshares! Intergenerational homeshare saves money and offers a rewarding adventure. Under 30? Dive into this solidarity opportunity.