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For years, senior living operators have strived to create communities that foster organic connections among different generations. However, this task is more challenging than it appears. Different generations have varying wants and needs, and they often utilize spaces in distinct ways, sometimes leading to friction even in meticulously planned projects.
Senior living companies and organizations have implemented various initiatives over the years to enhance intergenerational relationships, such as university-based communities and projects situated alongside multifamily communities. In 2024, innovative ideas surrounding intergenerational senior living are emerging, with new concepts and models being tested.
One such example is Lasell Village, a community on the campus of Lasell University near Boston, where senior living operators are encouraging intergenerational interactions through university living arrangements. Residents are required to participate in on-campus activities and volunteer work, with students also employed within the community.
Some communities, like a life plan community in Dousman, Wisconsin, and others within Watermark Retirement Communities, are focusing on thoughtful design concepts to promote more intergenerational interactions. For operators like Greystar, balancing these interactions is an ongoing process.
The future of intergenerational living lies in fostering shared visions among investor groups and higher education institutions. With shifting demographics and evolving customer profiles, there is a growing opportunity for the senior living industry to bring intergenerational concepts to life in the coming years.
Intergenerational senior living presents challenges in ensuring residents and surrounding community members use the same spaces. Some communities have addressed this by co-locating senior living with multifamily buildings, such as Watermark Retirement Communities’ community in Bellevue, Washington.
Watermark is exploring more mixed-use and intergenerational projects in urban areas to align with changing consumer preferences. Similarly, Eskaton is partnering with Mercy Housing to integrate affordable senior housing with multifamily units, fostering connected communities.
Greystar is incorporating intergenerational components into its active adult projects by building communities near multifamily properties while maintaining a balance between amenities for different residents. Successful marketing of these communities requires careful consideration to maintain the unique environment and premium appeal for active adult residents.
Creating intergenerational layouts is essential, but ensuring meaningful interactions between generations is equally important. Some operators are focused on acting as catalysts for intergenerational living, fostering connections through shared spaces and activities.
Intergenerational concepts in rural markets can be challenging, but senior living communities can serve as catalysts for interactions, sparking more development and vibrancy in previously quiet areas.
