Midt-Telemark Municipality offers student apartments at Bø Nursing Home for affordable living

Midt-Telemark Municipality is offering five student apartments at Bø Nursing Home for 4,000 NOK per month, including hot water, internet, electricity, and two dinners per week. The municipality previously sought funding for the “student at nursing home” project and received a grant of 250,000 NOK. Initially, students were required to volunteer 15 hours a month, but this requirement has been removed due to criticism. Elderly residents are looking forward to students moving in, believing it will bring a refreshing atmosphere. Currently, there are two applicants for the five available student spots. Project leader Martin Ytreland hopes the experiences gained can set a precedent for similar initiatives throughout the country.

Ytreland emphasized that anyone considering studying in Bø would be impressed by the accommodations. The nursing home features five bright, inviting rooms of 25 square meters, each with its own bathroom. He remarked that the supportive environment could enhance students’ experiences.

Jan Henrik Myhrvold, a 23-year-old student, expressed enthusiasm for the offer, noting its affordability and the opportunity to socialize with elderly residents. He stated he would definitely accept the offer if he were studying in Bø, citing his frequent conversations with his grandparents and their engaging stories.

Despite initial pushback regarding the volunteer requirement, Ytreland clarified that the goal was simply to foster interaction between students and residents, not to exploit young people for cheap labor.

The program has the potential to influence municipalities across Norway, according to Ytreland, who believes the project could serve as a model for integrating students into the lives of seniors.