Learning from Intergenerational Housing Projects in the USA

This report by Emma Garland, a Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Traveling Fellow outlines the findings of her Fellowship looking at intergenerational housing in the USA.

The key aim of her trip was to learn more about the different models of intergenerational housing that exist in the USA and to consider whether and how these could work in a UK context. She found:

  • Intergenerational housing works particularly well as a model for supported housing;
  • It fosters the creation of friendly, neighbourly, supportive communities where residents of all ages engage and interact on a regular basis; and
  • It can bring many benefits and a range of positive outcomes to individuals, the community and the state.

Through providing in depth case studies and by drawing together the key themes that emerged, Emma has written a report can be used as a practical tool for anyone considering setting up intergenerational housing schemes in the UK. It also will help stimulate further debate about the type of housing we should be building in the UK and to encourage the consideration of intergenerational housing alongside more traditional housing models.

And if you found this of interest, check out Emma's guest Housing LIN blog here (opens new window).