For Immediate Release
October 24, 2024
Contact: Sheri Steinig, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Communications
(202) 289-3979
Generations United’s New Blueprint Unveils Framework for Intergenerational Living and Details Steps to Improve Housing for All Ages
WASHINGTON, DC (October 24, 2024) — Intergenerational living is the way of the future. It’s consumer-driven as more and more older adults reject the senior-only living model wanting to live in vibrant communities that are welcoming to all ages. To help chart the way, today Generations United released “Healthier Lives Across Generations: A Blueprint for Intergenerational Living,” a strategic plan designed to promote intentional intergenerational housing and communities that foster meaningful interactions among people of all generations.
“This Blueprint is a call to action that addresses some of society’s most pressing issues,” said Donna Butts, Executive Director. “We have a unique opportunity to create safe, sustainable housing that enhances the health and well-being of those who have historically been left out of affordable living options.”
The Blueprint emphasizes the urgent need for intergenerational living solutions that:
- Provide safety, health, and basic necessities for all residents.
- Promote cooperation, interaction, interdependence, and understanding between generations.
- Enable individuals of all ages to share talents and resources, fostering supportive relationships within their communities.
“Intergenerational living not only combats loneliness, social isolation, and ageism but also addresses critical challenges such as the lack of affordable housing and housing stock in general,” Butts continued. “This way of living is far from a nice luxury. It is a critical solution to mending our frayed communities building stronger neighborhoods, and supporting people of all ages to live healthier, connected lives.”
The Blueprint outlines four key strategies for expanding intergenerational living options, drawn from insights gathered during an expert symposium conducted at Harvard University’s Design School:
- Research: Build the evidence base to demonstrate the benefits of intergenerational living.
- Communication: Create a compelling narrative to engage the private sector and build awareness.
- Policy and Finance: Advance policies and funding mechanisms that encourage and support the scaling of intergenerational living options.
- Practice and Design: Promote promising practices and architectural design elements that facilitate intergenerational interactions.
The Blueprint includes an action agenda for public and private investors, policymakers, and local government entities, detailing steps to enhance intergenerational living options and create healthier communities where all generations can thrive.
The Blueprint is the result of a partnership between Generations United, Harvard’s Joint Center on Housing Studies, and LeadingAge.
For more information about intergenerational living and the Blueprint and to learn how you can contribute to this movement, please contact Ilonka Walker at iwalker@gu.org.
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About Generations United:
For more than three decades, Generations United’s mission has been to improve the lives of children, youth, and older adults through intergenerational collaboration, public policies, and programs for the enduring benefit of all. We have been the catalyst for policies and practices stimulating cooperation and collaboration among generations, evoking the vibrancy, energy, and sheer productivity that result when people of all ages come together. Learn more at www.gu.org.