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?
If you’ve weighed all of the pros and cons and decided that shared housing is the retirement lifestyle for you, then start here for more information or help finding a roommate!
Want to read more great articles? Then, start with our Retirement Lifestyle Blog!
Do you need help with retirement planning? Then, visit Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch.
