Together with others forms of shared housing

If you want to live with other people, but still retain a high degree of independence, you can opt for a form of shared housing. Much as in the flat-sharing communities common among students, communal life in housing projects for the elderly is self-organised. However, every resident usually has his or her own flat, guaranteeing individuality and privacy. Nevertheless, the community idea can also go far beyond what is familiar from conventional neighbourly relationships. For instance, the housing projects are often planned by the participants themselves, and realised in cooperation with other players. In addition, the residents support each other when a little help is needed.

The advantage of these forms of housing is that you can continue to live independently for a long time in old age, and you are not alone. You have contact with others and can, if needs be, fall back on the help of your fellow residents in daily life. Also, consideration is already often given during the planning stage to ensuring that a home care service is likewise available, if necessary.

Anyone wanting to live in a shared housing project, must be willing to share part of their life with others, and to help others. Moreover, there is the risk that you may have to move out again if you develop a severe need for long-term care or dementia.