Cohabitation is resolutely a formula for the future in terms of senior housing. In this regard, Cohabitat Village VITAL, a solidarity cooperative, has presented itself for two years as a concrete solution in rural areas. Projects are underway in two1 of the six RCMs in the Lanaudière region2. The organization works in conjunction with stakeholders, as well as with other private and public partners.
The intention of «Village VITAL» is to provide seniors with an innovative and sustainable housing alternative, primarily aimed at the Boomer generation.3 Who the current offer is not suitable for.
Now, it is proven that « The built environment influences the health and autonomy of older adults. Its various components, including housing, neighborhood planning, and public and recreational spaces, contribute to healthy aging. ».4
Through its architectural structure and operation, cohousing will encourage residents to maintain their autonomy and stay active. The concept harmoniously blends private and community life, offering seniors a living environment that respects their individual and social needs within a community where mutual aid is paramount. All these factors contribute to combating loneliness, a major health issue in Quebec and Canada.5.
Whether in the Lanaudière region or elsewhere in Quebec, «Village VITAL» aims to multiply, enabling hundreds of seniors to live out the rest of their days with dignity. Lanaudière will have been its spearhead...
1 Matawinie and Joliette
2 The MRCs of Autray, Montcalm, and Des Moulins are currently being considered.
3 A boomer is a person born between 1946 and 1966 (in 2026, they will be between 60 and 80 years old). Village VITAL welcomes people aged 55 and over to ensure a succession.
4 Sources: INSPQ https://www.inspq.qc.ca/sante-personnes-ainees
5 Sources: Statistics Canada, «Nearly 1 in 5 Canadians aged 65 and over reported experiencing loneliness in 2021.».