"It's like a fragile fledgling": aging in place in an informal community housing model

Aging in place has become a central goal of aging policy and practice, reflecting older adults' preference to remain in their homes and communities rather than relocating to institutional settings. Community-based living arrangements are increasingly viewed as a potential response to loneliness and social isolation in later life. The present study examines an informal, non-institutional community housing model initiated by older women who sought to age in place together. It explores how community members experience communal life, the meanings they attribute to the community, and the extent to which the model supports aging in place.

The study employed a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through 16 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with members of 3 informal community housing groups located in the city of Harish, Israel.

Findings are organized around 4 central themes: (a) the community as a family; (b) dilemmas surrounding intimacy and romantic relationships within the community; (c) tensions between spontaneity and formalization in community organization; and (d) differing understandings of the community's purpose. Together, these themes reveal the ambivalence and fragility inherent in informal community living.

The findings highlight both the potential and the limitations of informal community models in supporting aging in place. While such communities can enhance social connection, security, and mutual support, they also require ongoing negotiation to define boundaries and shared expectations. The study has implications for practitioners, community organizers, and policymakers seeking to promote aging in place through non-institutional, community-based initiatives.