Wording – Chrissie JohnsonThe term ‘multi-generational’ has been bandied about for several years now, being coined when developers recognized the then emerging social and housing needs and accommodated this by including dedicated spaces for people older than 55 years when planning estate developments. In doing so unique niches have been created, catering specifically to the different generations: retirement units for grandparents, large freestanding homes for parents, and luxury apartments for young or professional adults, all in one secure gated community.
This concept for developments is about creating a living environment that is genuinely of mutual benefit to multiple generations. It’s about understanding that housing has both a social impact and a public health aspect, and this type of housing supports both those good outcomes.
Living habits (worldwide) show that people want to feel more connected to their families, and be close enough in residential housing areas to give support in many aspects of life when needed. This could be where older parents can ease the burden regarding childcare, or after school care, or, assisting with school pick up etc. With this situation, relationships can be fostered between the oldest and youngest members of a family, thereby keeping the family better connected.
At the same time this also encourages active participation for the older generation whilst still retaining their independence. For many, multi-generational developments are a better alternative than moving into aged-care accommodation or growing increasingly isolated and vulnerable as they age living alone. The emphasis here is about fortifying relationships and making life easier for everyone.
A study by University College London (UCL) showed that increased social contact between the ages of 50 to 70 is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia, while the University of Alaska and Anchorage identified that children who mix with older people see improvements in language development, reading and social skills. It also enables children to have great safe spaces to play in, and they can also pop in and out of each other’s houses. In one sense, it is quite an old-fashioned and sentimental view of what neighbourliness means, but it is very appealing to many people.
Health and wellness also form a vital part of multigenerational living and facilities are needed to encourage social and physically active activities. Easy accessibility to fitness facilities increases the willingness of adults to invest their time and energy in exercise. (According to Science Direct Journal) However if these facilities are outside their area of residence this is not the case. Results show that PAF (Physical Activity Facilities) and VPA (Vigorous Physical Activity) are significantly higher in gated communities than in non-gated neighbourhoods. Pedestrian friendly paths also promote a healthy lifestyle and community engagement.
By providing exclusive spaces such as gyms, yoga studios, swimming pools, meditation areas, a library, a cinema room, a bistro/lounge dining area or even a bowls practice lawn, property developers are ensuring that a family’s boundaries are not confined to within their own four walls but rather they are enabling socialization, and a strengthened sense of community.
For working adults, there are also practical services like pharmacies and grocery stores that are a “wish list factor”, making it much more convenient to get everyday necessities. Many estates are now including commercial retail outlets to provide this vital factor.
Multi-generational housing is all about support. Interestingly this is how villages developed centuries ago – having a support mechanism in your walkable neighbourhood. By embracing familial roots, fulfilling the needs of young and old, promoting well-being with various facilities, and even including multi-level affordable care options, it is no wonder this type of development is on the rise. Interestingly its name is also evolving often now being referred to as - intergenerational estate living and investing.
This article is for general information only and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)