What Are the Benefits of Senior Cohousing?
Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect senior cohousing community or new to the concept, you’re in the right place. Senior cohousing is an arrangement where people live in separate units but share communal spaces. Also known as a communal living arrangement, it can be a wonderful alternative to aging in place. But what are the benefits of senior cohousing? Keep reading to find out!
Sense of Community
As we age or retire, we can lose our sense of community. Suddenly, you’re no longer in the nine-to-five trenches with your coworkers. Many older adults may feel alone and disconnected from others. Fortunately, cohousing offers a built-in sense of community. You get to live with other older adults who are in your shoes. You can help each other and really foster a strong sense of togetherness.
Cost Savings
In this economy, we could all afford to save a few dollars. The good news is that cohousing may benefit your wallet, too! In addition to saving on things like rent and utilities, you and your neighbors can pitch in for meals and other services.
Social Opportunities
Did you know that loneliness may be as detrimental to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day? It can be harder for seniors to find friends and even harder to maintain friendships. However, senior cohousing offers plenty of socialization opportunities. From sharing meals to taking day trips to playing cards, you’ll have your pick of fun activities to share with your new neighbors. Best of all, you won’t even have to leave the community to hang out.
Better Security
Security is always a concern, whether you’re nine or ninety. With senior cohousing, you won’t have to form a neighborhood watch. You’ll have a built-in security system in your community of like-minded individuals! Now, how’s that for peace of mind?
Shared Resources
Nobody likes doing chores, especially retirees. It can become increasingly difficult to clean those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies and scrub the floor to perfection. Senior cohousing means sharing resources. Instead of taking on all your chores by yourself, you can ask your neighbor for a little help. When it comes to cooking, you won’t have to make all your meals alone, either! You and your friends can share groceries, responsibilities, and even vehicles!
Promotes Independence
While a lot of seniors want to age in place, it’s not always the safest option for everyone. Senior cohousing is a happy medium. You get to enjoy retirement on your terms, but you’ll have extra peace of mind with so many people around. People who can help you and carry your load when it gets to be too heavy.
Better Quality of Life
Last but certainly not least, senior cohousing may raise your quality of life. Not only do you get to be part of a real community, but you can also enjoy your retirement without having to do everything on your own. You get to downsize without sacrificing your independence. It truly is the best of both worlds.
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Originally published October 02, 2023