France addresses aging population through intergenerational housing

France is experiencing a significant demographic shift characterized by an aging population and a growing need for social connection and affordable housing. In regions like Vendée, the population is aging rapidly; while the area has seen growth due to migration, the natural birth-to-death ratio has been negative since 2015. In some coastal areas of Vendée, seniors now outnumber residents under 20 by a ratio of two to one.

To address both senior isolation and the student housing crisis, intergenerational co-living is gaining momentum. This model involves seniors providing a room to young adults or students in exchange for a reduced monthly fee—typically between €50 and €200—and regular companionship or light assistance with daily tasks. There are currently over 15,000 such pairings in France, supported by more than 60 associations.