Senior Living in West: LGBTQ Inclusion and Grandfamily Housing Redefine Aging Communities
The specific projection that the 75+ population in Europe is expected to increase by 10.8 million by 2035 is cited in an article by Harrison Street, a real estate investment firm, discussing the growth prospects of the European senior housing market. (Source: Fotor AI)
Europe and North America face similar demographic transformations as their senior populations grow rapidly. Europe’s 75+ demographic is projected to expand by 10.8 million by 2035, prompting policymakers and developers to advance innovative, inclusive housing strategies that foster community and accessibility.
Government Initiatives and Funding
European Union: Promoting affordable, age-friendly housing through the Affordable Housing Plan and European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), emphasizing social inclusion and homelessness prevention.
Scandinavia: In Sweden, the SällBo project repurposed a retirement home into an intergenerational co-housing space, fostering connection between elderly and younger residents.
Belgium: The CALICO (Care and Living in Community) project in Brussels, funded by the EU’s Urban Innovative Actions, combines intergenerational housing, gender equality, and inclusive urban living.
Housing Innovation and Investment
United States: Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a continuum from independent living to skilled nursing.
UK and Australia: Deferred Management Fee (DMF) villages provide flexible living and care financing models.
Stonewall House, NYC: America’s first affordable housing project for LGBTQ+ seniors offers a safe, inclusive environment with on-site support services.
Griot Village, Ohio: Designed for grandparents raising grandchildren, this intergenerational housing includes child-friendly facilities and support systems.
Market Drivers and Challenges
High Demand, Limited Supply: Occupancy rates are at record highs, but rising construction and financing costs hinder new developments.
Boomer Expectations: Baby Boomers demand wellness-centric, service-rich environments, pushing innovation in design and amenities.
Affordability: The supply of high-quality senior housing is skewed toward upper-income groups, prompting policy focus on nonprofit and affordable options.
Outlook: Global Momentum Toward Inclusive Senior Living
Across Asia, Europe, and North America, the senior housing market is primed for growth. Demographic shifts, evolving family structures, and policy innovation are driving a new era of age-friendly development. Expect:
Increased public-private partnerships
Cross-border investment and knowledge sharing
New housing typologies emphasizing autonomy, community, and care
As cities worldwide confront the implications of longevity, senior housing is no longer just about shelter—it's about designing dignity, choice, and connection into the very fabric of urban life.
This article is the second installment of our "Senior Living" series, building on last week’s Asia-focused report. It dives into how Western countries are embracing diversity and intergenerational living, shaping new paradigms for aging communities. (Part 1: Senior Living in Asia: How 945 Million Seniors Influence Housing Policies)
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