The Beguinage: A Housing Solution For Seniors
For independent seniors who value their independence but want to break away from loneliness, there is a sometimes little-known housing solution: the beguinage. We will explain what this type of accommodation entails in 5 questions.
1- What is a beguinage housing?
The concept of béguinage originated in Flanders in the 17th century. Originally, this word was used to designate places where religious communities lived. Women called béguines worked, prayed, and lived together while respecting each other's privacy.
Nowadays, some béguinages have been renovated and converted into senior housing. At the same time, new residential complexes are being built based on the model of the old béguinages and are adopting this name.
2- Who are the beguinages intended for?
Today's beguinages are housing for seniors. But they retain a social purpose and primarily accommodate elderly people with modest incomes.
These living spaces composed of individual housing and common buildings are intended for people over 60 years old who are not dependent.
The Béguinage Solidaire association, which promotes this type of housing, has no religious vocation. It offers people who meet these criteria the opportunity to rent personal housing, such as a house or an apartment, while sharing a third place dedicated to collective activities.
3- How does a senior co-housing community work?
Senior beguinages generally consist of 10 to 20 single-story dwellings available for rent or purchase. These individual homes are specially designed for elderly people who may have reduced mobility.
The seniors living there are at home and can use the services of a home help. They also commit to participating in community life, which is punctuated by activities and moments of conviviality in shared spaces.
But of course, each resident remains free to be more or less involved in common activities, depending on their desires and personality.
4- What are the advantages of the beguinage for seniors?
Many seniors who do not want to go to a nursing home or retirement home are turning to this solution. By opting for housing in a beguinage, they benefit from an adapted environment designed to be both safe and friendly.
Beguinages are a good alternative to nursing homes. Among the advantages of this type of accommodation, we can note:
• Housing adapted to the loss of autonomy.
• The presence of nearby shops.
• The sharing of common spaces and services.
• The possibility of meeting people when desired.
Because they are based on the principles of sharing, solidarity, and mutual aid, senior beguinages contribute to the preservation of social ties. Breaking solitude is a strong demand from elderly people, especially since the Covid health crisis.
5- How much does accommodation in a beguinage cost?
The rates for senior beguinages vary depending on the region where they are located.
Some of these accommodations offer rents and rates adapted to retirees with low incomes. This is particularly the case when the beguinage is managed by local authorities or a social landlord.
If you are interested in this type of senior housing, note that you can also benefit from housing assistance and the APA at home. These are two aids that can be combined.
To learn more about this senior housing concept and to find a beguinage in France, I invite you to visit the website of the Béguinage solidaire association (link below).
