Collaborative housing for active aging: an international comparative analysis

Purpose This paper examines collaborative housing (CH) as a model for promoting active aging by analyzing the interplay between spatial, social and managerial dimensions. While research on aging has predominantly focused on social and health-related aspects, comparatively less attention has been given to the architectural and environmental qualities of housing for older adults. The study explores the relationship between the built and social environments in senior CH projects through the lens of active aging. Its aim is to identify key lessons and recommendations to inform design criteria for CH projects that support active aging. Design/methodology/approach This study focuses on architectural design by examining spatial characteristics (site design, architectural program and the relationship with the surrounding neighborhood), social characteristics (social networks and the ways in which residents organize to carry out social and domestic activities) and management models (tenure, CH model and overall administration). The analytical framework guided the analysis of six international cases of CH for older adults located in Brazil, Chile, Spain, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. Findings The comparative analysis identifies three central lessons: the importance of spatial clarity and diverse communal areas; the balance between privacy and shared living; and the relevance of connections with the surrounding neighborhood and the natural environment. The findings suggest that CH reduces isolation, fosters social networks and supports independence. However, ensuring long-term adaptability to the progressive challenges of aging remains a critical issue for both design and policy. Originality/value The paper examines the relationship between the built environment, the social environment and managerial elements in specialized housing projects for older adults, with particular attention to spatial layout characteristics, in order to identify key lessons that inform design criteria for housing projects that support active aging.