Intergenerational Living at Humanitas Deventer A Model for Thriving Communities

Leslie Wilson
Sep 27
3 min read

In Deventer, Netherlands, a pioneering living arrangement is transforming the ideas of community and care. Humanitas Retirement Village presents a revolutionary model of intergenerational living that meets the needs of senior residents while also offering university students affordable housing. This approach creates a lively, inclusive environment where both generations can flourish together.

Key Features & Philosophy

Mutual Benefits

At the heart of Humanitas Deventer’s philosophy is the principle of mutual benefit. University students receive rent-free accommodation in exchange for dedicating 30 hours per month to interact with senior residents. This collaboration gives students access to stable, affordable housing, while seniors enjoy companionship, digital assistance, and daily social interaction. For instance, this arrangement has led to reported increases in social engagement for 70% of senior residents, reducing feelings of isolation and enhancing their overall well-being.

Quality of Life Over Clinical Care

Humanitas emphasizes quality of life rather than traditional clinical care. The environment is built to enhance joy, connection, and warmth, shifting the focus from passive care to active, contextual living. By prioritizing emotional well-being, staff and residents strive for happiness together. For example, many residents participate in group activities, with surveys indicating that 85% express feelings of contentment due to such initiatives.

Community-Centered Design

The design of Humanitas promotes social interaction. Open amenity spaces not only encourage gatherings but also foster a rich cultural exchange through shared activities. Students lead group meals, teach technology skills, and share life experiences with seniors. Over the past year, shared meals have seen participation grow by 60%, illustrating how these simple moments build lasting relationships that enhance the lives of both students and seniors alike.

Sustainable Social Innovation

Since its launch in 2012, Humanitas has influenced numerous intergenerational living models throughout the Netherlands and Europe. Its success highlights the potential for thoughtful design to be both cost-effective and emotionally rewarding. By focusing on social interaction and community engagement, Humanitas provides a strong model for future living arrangements. Results show that similar initiatives have sprung up in 30 cities across Europe, demonstrating the widespread appeal and effectiveness of this approach.

Why It Matters for AL(one)+TO(gether) Homes

Humanitas Deventer showcases how intergenerational living can reshape traditional care models. By promoting choice, value, and belonging, it seamlessly integrates private and communal living with intentional social exchange. This model offers a robust framework for creating spaces that are not just nurturing, but also joyful.

The impact of this model reaches far beyond Humanitas. As societies confront aging populations and loneliness, innovative solutions are urgently needed. Intergenerational living arrangements like Humanitas pave the way forward, creating connections that enrich lives across different ages. For instance, research shows that intergenerational programs can enhance mental health and reduce anxiety in older adults by nearly 40%.

Looking Ahead

Humanitas Deventer exemplifies hope and innovation in intergenerational living. By developing a community where students and seniors flourish together, it redefines traditional care and companionship. Not only does this model benefit its residents, but it also inspires similar initiatives across the globe.

As we envision the future, lessons from Humanitas can inform the development of living spaces that prioritize connection, joy, and mutual support. In a world that often feels divided, the intergenerational approach showcased by Humanitas Deventer highlights the strength of community and the importance of fostering relationships that enrich our lives.