Here is a shortened, clean version of your prompt with the same meaning:
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Four friends, one home: A new way to age together. In a quiet neighborhood in Ottawa, four accomplished women have forged a unique aging path by creating a communal home that perfectly blends companionship and independence. This innovative approach to senior living offers an alternative for those who wish to age in place while maintaining a strong social network.
Creating a Cohousing Community
These four friends, all single and retired professionals, refer to themselves as the ‘soul sisters’. Consisting of two physicians, a nurse, and a high school teacher, they worked together to design a house that allows them to live together while still preserving their independence. Each woman has her own fully self-contained private unit with a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom. Besides their private spaces, they also share a variety of communal spaces including a larger kitchen, dining room, living room, guest room, craft room, and a beautiful garden.
The Birth of the ‘Soul Sisters’ Concept
The ‘soul sisters’ met through a church choir and had been living separately until 2017. As they explored the concept of co-housing, they discussed everything from finances to personal values. By December 2022, their shared living arrangement was a reality, with each woman holding 25 per cent ownership in the property. Their goal was to preserve their independence while enjoying the benefits of companionship.
Addressing the Challenge of Isolation in Aging
As city planners and policymakers across Canada contemplate the creation of age-friendly environments, the issue of social inclusion is at the forefront. The ‘soul sisters’ model addresses this concern, providing an environment that nurtures companionship and reduces the risk of social isolation often associated with aging. The shared living arrangement allows these women to interact as much or as little as they wish, providing a sense of security and mutual support.
Reclaiming the Value of Connection
For these four women, this shared living arrangement is not just about convenience but also about reclaiming the value of being connected. They schedule shared meals every week and hold regular meetings to make collective decisions about finances, maintenance, and their shared spaces. Their daily life remains flexible, but they know they can lean on each other for support when needed. This model of co-housing offers a promising alternative for aging adults, especially as traditional family structures continue to change.
Conclusion
The architect of the ‘soul sisters’ building, Rosaline Hill, hopes that co-housing becomes a staple option within the housing market for people of all ages. This unique approach to senior living illustrates the benefits of communal living, offering an alternative that combines independence with a strong social network. For the ‘soul sisters’, it’s about experiencing life together and reclaiming the value of connectedness that they believe has faded in their generation.
