Case study
Oct 25, 2022
According to UN-Habitat, the world needs to build 96,000 affordable homes every day to address the
global housing crisis by 2030. Yet, better utilizing existing housing stock—through options such as shared
housing—can make a significant dent in the need to build more housing. With college students often
challenged to find affordable housing and many older adults living alone in homes with spare bedrooms,
these two groups are increasingly benefitting from living together. Universities are often well-suited to
facilitate students living and learning with older adults in nearby communities. Intentionally fostering
intergenerational engagement through places and programs can reduce loneliness, mitigate ageist
stereotypes, and help both groups to thrive.