Stories from the Co-Living Community
Sometimes, the best way to understand a new concept is through the stories of those who have already taken the leap. While every journey is unique, these experiences highlight the profound impact that choosing a shared lifestyle can have.
Consider Margaret, a 72-year-old widow. After her husband passed, the four-bedroom house where they raised their children felt cavernously empty. The silence was deafening, and the upkeep was becoming a physical and financial strain. She mentioned her feelings to two friends from her weekly bridge game, both also living alone. An idea sparked. After months of planning, they sold their respective homes and pooled their resources to buy a large, single-level townhouse. Today, Margaret says she hasn’t felt this vibrant in years. They share cooking duties, watch movies together in the evening, and look out for one another. When one had a minor health scare, the other two were right there to help. It’s not just a house; it’s a support system and a home filled with laughter again.
Then there’s Robert, a 68-year-old retired teacher who went through a divorce just before retirement. The prospect of living alone for the first time in 40 years was daunting. He wasn’t interested in a traditional 55+ community, which he felt lacked energy. He discovered a purpose-built intergenerational co-living building in a nearby city. He moved into a small, private apartment and quickly became the community’s unofficial grandfather. He tutors a college student who lives down the hall in exchange for tech support with his new smartphone. He shares stories with a young couple expecting their first child. Robert found that his life experience was not just valued, but needed. He didn’t just find a place to live; he found a new sense of purpose.
These stories underscore a common theme. The move to co-living is rarely just about saving money. It’s a proactive step toward a richer, more connected life. It’s about intentionally building a “chosen family” to navigate the joys and challenges of aging together.
