I wonder if the second half of life isn't asking for less independence, but a different kind of interdependence. There's a quiet strength in choosing community. X
We are designed to live together (not apart) Sadly - I'll miss the call; en route to a friend's 50th birthday party in the Dordogne (Younger friends are awesome). Homeless since 2011, in between work gigs, I've lived at Esalen, in friends' spare rooms, with aging relatives, housesat, retreated, and travelled. Friendships and family relationships are stronger - fed by intention, proximity, and frequency. 'Collisions' have led to new friendships. I've been able to choose work that is fulfilling and impactful for others. Actually showing up on the doorstep, spending nights, preparing meals, and taking time for that fourth question or second cup of coffee has made a far richer life. Plus ... I've bought nearly nothing (except gifts, experiences, and food) for 15 years. Go Planet.
This is an interesting idea. I had a conversation with a woman yesterday who recently turned 70. She was noting that she needed to put a new roof on her home and that it will likely be her last new roof; same with the new car she is looking to buy (as she had her previous car for 21 years!)
While I know this is an idea that might be gaining traction (especially for a veteran hotelier) I'm not sure that the answer here is necessarily shared homes or parallel living (at least not for us Northeasteners) but about leaning way into community by creating small groups - like the active seniors group that Vivian Linder began - based around affinities in places like churches and synagogues. Both have built in communities, often of folks who already know one another and have been a part of each other's lives. Those who belong to those communities need to harness the power of affiliation to create the communities they dream to create. Often, they'll just need a program person - like the equivalent of a youth leader, advisor or camp counselor - to help them develop this muscle.
That, and service. There is Time Affluence at 70 and lots and lots of health. As Mary Oliver writes, “What do you want to do with your one wild and precious life.”
I will miss the call but am hoping it will be either replayed or continued.A most important and relevant and meaningful and terrific opportunity to gather and share.
Wow! While I nearly always enjoy your words of wisdom this post misses the mark. I get that you are promoting your version of shared living but there are other options for those of us "in the middle." Have you heard of co-housing communities? There are hundreds around the country that have been in existance for years. Some are multi-generational and others are 55+ but they are all for vibrantly alive humans who enjoy creating community together. Another alternative I live in is a 55+ RV resort in Tucson and although one of the people living there has to be at least 55 the range of ages is phenomenal. And while some of the people there range into the 80s and 90s the vibrancy and aliveness of nearly all the residents who call the property home for at least part of the year has nothing to do with being "senior" or "assisted living". While I agree that living isolated in suburbia or in an urban neighborhood is not the answer for anyone--there are alternatives. Sure, shared housing is a great idea but please don't overlook other existing options as well.
My friends and I often joke that we will live on property with a chef, a trainer for Seniors, and a really hot massage therapist---each with our own wing in the grand house we buy.
I am hoping this will be replayed over the weekend (since I am still working with no plans to retire ). Interestingly, I (age 66) am planning a move to Santa Fe. With a friend (age 71). We have each been looking at real estate and have been challenged by the high cost of real estate. We just decided to pool our resources and buy a home together! We're both excited to share a home as we enter this next chapter in our lives.
It seems like we are looking for a way to gather info on what’s currently available and what might be possible. I love addressing the “empty bedrooms”. Shared housing… living can be so much, and not just for 55-80 year olds. I’m looking for info and ideas!
I wonder if the second half of life isn't asking for less independence, but a different kind of interdependence. There's a quiet strength in choosing community. X
We are designed to live together (not apart) Sadly - I'll miss the call; en route to a friend's 50th birthday party in the Dordogne (Younger friends are awesome). Homeless since 2011, in between work gigs, I've lived at Esalen, in friends' spare rooms, with aging relatives, housesat, retreated, and travelled. Friendships and family relationships are stronger - fed by intention, proximity, and frequency. 'Collisions' have led to new friendships. I've been able to choose work that is fulfilling and impactful for others. Actually showing up on the doorstep, spending nights, preparing meals, and taking time for that fourth question or second cup of coffee has made a far richer life. Plus ... I've bought nearly nothing (except gifts, experiences, and food) for 15 years. Go Planet.
This is an interesting idea. I had a conversation with a woman yesterday who recently turned 70. She was noting that she needed to put a new roof on her home and that it will likely be her last new roof; same with the new car she is looking to buy (as she had her previous car for 21 years!)
While I know this is an idea that might be gaining traction (especially for a veteran hotelier) I'm not sure that the answer here is necessarily shared homes or parallel living (at least not for us Northeasteners) but about leaning way into community by creating small groups - like the active seniors group that Vivian Linder began - based around affinities in places like churches and synagogues. Both have built in communities, often of folks who already know one another and have been a part of each other's lives. Those who belong to those communities need to harness the power of affiliation to create the communities they dream to create. Often, they'll just need a program person - like the equivalent of a youth leader, advisor or camp counselor - to help them develop this muscle.
That, and service. There is Time Affluence at 70 and lots and lots of health. As Mary Oliver writes, “What do you want to do with your one wild and precious life.”
I will miss the call but am hoping it will be either replayed or continued.A most important and relevant and meaningful and terrific opportunity to gather and share.
Wow! While I nearly always enjoy your words of wisdom this post misses the mark. I get that you are promoting your version of shared living but there are other options for those of us "in the middle." Have you heard of co-housing communities? There are hundreds around the country that have been in existance for years. Some are multi-generational and others are 55+ but they are all for vibrantly alive humans who enjoy creating community together. Another alternative I live in is a 55+ RV resort in Tucson and although one of the people living there has to be at least 55 the range of ages is phenomenal. And while some of the people there range into the 80s and 90s the vibrancy and aliveness of nearly all the residents who call the property home for at least part of the year has nothing to do with being "senior" or "assisted living". While I agree that living isolated in suburbia or in an urban neighborhood is not the answer for anyone--there are alternatives. Sure, shared housing is a great idea but please don't overlook other existing options as well.
My friends and I often joke that we will live on property with a chef, a trainer for Seniors, and a really hot massage therapist---each with our own wing in the grand house we buy.
Is there a replay link for this?
I am hoping this will be replayed over the weekend (since I am still working with no plans to retire ). Interestingly, I (age 66) am planning a move to Santa Fe. With a friend (age 71). We have each been looking at real estate and have been challenged by the high cost of real estate. We just decided to pool our resources and buy a home together! We're both excited to share a home as we enter this next chapter in our lives.
It seems like we are looking for a way to gather info on what’s currently available and what might be possible. I love addressing the “empty bedrooms”. Shared housing… living can be so much, and not just for 55-80 year olds. I’m looking for info and ideas!