What is intergenerational housing?
With rising rents and increasing difficulty finding accommodation, more and more students and young professionals are looking for affordable and human-centered housing alternatives. Finding a place to live has become a real challenge, especially in large cities.
At the same time, many seniors live alone and wish to remain in their homes while benefiting from a reassuring daily presence. In this context, intergenerational housing is emerging as an innovative, supportive, and win-win solution.
Based on the principle of housing in exchange for services, it helps create meaningful social connections while addressing real everyday needs. Discover how this model works and why it is becoming increasingly popular.
What is intergenerational housing?
Intergenerational housing involves offering a room in a senior’s home to a student or young professional in exchange for daily assistance or a reduced financial contribution.
This model is built on a simple idea: mutual support and sharing. The senior benefits from a reassuring presence, while the guest gains access to affordable accommodation, sometimes even free.
Services may include:
- help with shopping or meals
- administrative or digital assistance
- companionship and shared moments
To learn more about how it works, visit the page on housing in exchange for services.
Why choose intergenerational housing?
This type of housing offers many benefits for both parties.
For students and young professionals
- significant reduction in housing costs
- access to accommodation in otherwise unaffordable areas
- a stable and secure living environment
- a meaningful human experience
For seniors
- a reassuring daily presence
- reduced social isolation
- help with everyday tasks
- better use of available living space
How to set up intergenerational housing?
Setting up this arrangement requires a clear agreement between both parties. It is recommended to define:
- expected services
- presence times
- possible financial contribution
- household rules
A secure framework is essential to ensure a smooth experience. You can consult the safety guide as well as the contract template to formalise your agreement.
A practical way to live differently
Flexible, accessible and human-focused, intergenerational housing is part of a new way of living. It combines affordability, solidarity and quality of life.
Whether you are looking for accommodation or ready to host someone, you can now join the platform and find the right match.
Sign up as a guest or offer accommodation on ToitChezMoi.
Source: https://www.bonjoursenior.fr/. This organisation was created to help seniors better understand the range of products and services available to them. The website provides information, advice, and free connections with professionals located nearby.