Promotion of Inter-generational housing

What is the problem?

Access to affordable and stable housing has become a major obstacle for students, particularly those who must relocate to attend universities or vocational institutions. Limited housing supply, rising rental prices, and insufficient student accommodation, such as campuses, contribute to financial insecurity and stress among young people.

What should be done?

Students face vast challenges in accessing housing when they have to move to different areas than the ones they are from, for studying. The recommendation is to support intergenerational living, elderly people to offer rooms of their apartments/houses to students coming from low income, which at the same time can tackle the elderly’s loneliness. 

Who should act?

Again, this is mainly a national action, so national action should be in place. However, a shift of mindset should also be encouraged at the same time, so both sides agree to cohabitate. 

What impact will it have?

Encouraging intergenerational housing addresses both student housing shortages and the growing issue of loneliness among older adults. If promoted through supportive national programs and local coordination, this initiative would have several benefits such as, improved student well-being, social solidarity, companionship for the elderly, and efficient use of existing housing stock.