The Pros And Cons Of Aging In Place With A Roommate
Shared housing, or a home share, is when two or more people live together for mutual benefit. Housemates, flatmates, lodgers—no matter what you call it, aging in place with a roommate is an option more and more seniors are choosing.
Are you a retiree considering shared housing? Wondering if a roommate is right for you? Let’s talk about all of the pros and cons!
Aging In Place With a Roommate – PROS
With the cost of living continuing to rise, it’s no wonder why seniors have been choosing shared housing as a lifestyle. Splitting expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries can be a huge help for those living on fixed incomes. Here are some other PROS to consider:
- Companionship
- Complementary abilities – maybe one roommate is unable to drive and the other happens to be the best cook
- Shared chores and responsibilities – cleaning, maintenance, and yard work can be split up
- Confidence in numbers – senior housemates can rest a little easier knowing that if there’s a medical or another type of emergency, someone is always there
- Peace of mind for family members
- Help each other maintain independence
- Additional source of income
- Social engagement
- Built-in pet sitter
Aging In Place With a Roommate – CONS
Of course, aging in place with a roommate may not be the ideal lifestyle for everyone. Some CONS to consider are:
- Personality clashing
- Disagreements about pets
- Different cleanliness and priority standards
- Less privacy
- Sharing – hey, sometimes you just want your own stuff
- Disagreements about home temperature
- Different standards for houseguests
- Potential of one roommate hogging a certain space or the TV
- Different noise thresholds
- Disagreements about finances
Are You a Retiree Looking For Shared Housing?
Do you need help with retirement planning? Then, visit Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch.
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Originally published December 08, 2022