Co-housing in China: Feasibility study of Chinese elderly co-housing in the coming decade

Abstract

As aging continues to increase, China is facing unprecedented sustainability challenges. At the same time, the perceptions and physical environment of the next generation of aging are shifting. In the midst of this, the senior co-housing model seems like a possible solution to be introduced in China. In this context, senior co-housing refers to “intentional communities” that senior residents live closely and in a balance of private space and collective activities. The thesis inquires into the viability of the senior co-housing services to fit into the Chinese context in the next decade. Specifically, it investigates three research aspects: the current status and characteristics of existing co-housing, the Chinese retirement environment and trend, and the entry point for combining the two.

This work consists of three phases. In the first phase, I explore the perceptions and visions of the Chinese new generation elderly on aging. This phase takes place in Jinan, China, where I have done in-depth interviews with the target group and facilitated a workshop that enables research participants to discuss future co-housing lifestyles. In the second phase, I examine the European co-housing model and applications by conducting interviews with a resident of the Finnish co-housing organization Aktiiviset Seniorit and the designer who has been working with the project for overtime. Lastly, in the third phase, I look into the ecosystem and composition of the present Chinese elderly care landscape. According to the findings, I summarize the characteristics and the parts to integrate with the co-housing model.

This thesis study shows the potential for integrating the senior co-housing model into the Chinese context and suggests several characteristics as possible guidance of future senior co-housing projects. Based on the key findings, possible visions are depicted. The study provides implications for the applications of senior co-housing in China. Moreover, it helps people to understand better the needs of the new generation of older people.