Senior community living model gains popularity in Helsinki

Leena Vahtera, 77, chose to leave her home in Malminkartano, Helsinki, to avoid being a burden on her children with constant invitations. Now, she jokes about the opposite situation, saying, “When my son suggests a meeting, it doesn’t work out because I always have something else to do.” For the past nine years, Vahtera has lived in a community senior residence in Kalasatama, far from a traditional care home. The nine-story building houses 63 apartments, ranging from 38 to 77 square meters, along with 500 square meters of shared facilities, including a dining room, library, fireplace lounge, fitness center, hobby room, office, rooftop garden, and two saunas.

The building, named “Kotisatama” (Home Harbor), was the initiative of active seniors inspired by models in Sweden. Residents collaborated with an architect to design the structure, which was completed in 2015. Vahtera also encouraged her friend Terttu Fält, 73, to join her in moving into the community, which has significantly exceeded their initial expectations for social interaction.

Community living involves responsibilities; residents take turns fulfilling tasks, including meal preparation and cleaning, on a rotating schedule. Meals are communal, with one meal provided daily. This arrangement suits Fält, who finds regular cooking tedious.

Participation in shared meals isn’t mandatory, allowing for varying levels of social engagement among residents. With over half of Helsinki’s elderly living alone, there is growing interest in communal senior living. Officials recognize the need for diverse housing options, suggesting potential for increased support for initiatives such as Kotisatama. Vahtera and Fält reflect on their experiences and advocate for the societal benefits of this living arrangement, which fosters companionship and reduces loneliness among seniors.