Baycrest

CO-HOUSING among seniors: A new way to deal with stress, anxiety and mental health A s we age, different stages of life bring with them changes in physical and mental health, as well as changes in psychosocial well-being and diminished social roles. As children move out or a spouse or friends pass away, older adults may begin to feel the effects of isolation, which can have profound negative health consequences. Loneliness among older adults is quickly becoming a public health crisis in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, over one million seniors report feelings of loneliness and isolation. Feeling lonely affects your mood and mental state, and it can also lower cognitive function and increase the risk of premature death, heart attack, stroke, depression and dementia. Dementia is the greatest global challenge for health and social care in the 21st century. Currently, 47 million people worldwide are afflicted, and we must look at some of the potentially modifiable factors that contribute to the risk of dementia, such as social isolation, and find solutions. Dr. Adriana Shnall, Manager and Professional Practice Chief of Social Work at Baycrest, recently spoke about the idea of co-housing, a new trend among older adults living independently, as a possible solution to fight isolation. The concept of co-housing, the formation of an intentional group living together – or roommates – goes beyond practical financial arrangements, said Shnall. "It's cheaper to live with somebody else but it's also better for our physical health and for our mental health." Living with roommates is not a new idea, but it is an emerging trend among older adults in the Greater Toronto Area. "By living together people form a community, especially people who once lived in a family, with a partner or children, or both. As they get older, they lose all of those supports that are inherent to living with others," added Shnall. For older adults who once lived in a family but are now living alone, co-housing might be a great alternative to living alone or having to sell their home and move somewhere else. In terms of companionship, there is always someone to talk to, go for a walk with, play games with, etc. The benefits of co-housing go beyond social companionship. Older adults may have a need for personal care support (e.g., help with bathing or other routine daily activities). Co-housing can offer this kind of assistance in a cost-effective manner if the care provider comes into the home and assists more than one person. When living in groups of two, three or more, older adults can find that their moodsimprove, they feel less anxious and have someone to share experiences with, reducing the risk of depression. Co-housing helps improve nutrition as well. Dr. Adriana Shnall "By living together people form a community. Especially people who once lived in a family..." 16 BrainMatters SPRING/SUMMER 2019

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