By Trish Svoboda

A rural sociologist researching housing’s impact on economic growth in U.S. counties said that assisting older citizens in finding alternative living arrangements is crucial for addressing local economic, demographic, and workforce issues. Ben Winchester, affiliated with the University of Minnesota Extension and the Department of Community Development, advocates for ‘move-over’ housing, a type of independent living designed for ease of maintenance and single-level living. Historically, up to 30% of households would opt for such housing, but current retirees often struggle to find suitable options, which affects housing availability for younger generations.

Winchester, who spoke at the July 12 First Friday e-Call hosted by K-State Research and Extension, highlighted that many seniors prefer to stay in their homes due to familiarity and emotional connections. However, he recommends building senior-friendly housing to facilitate rural growth and address labor shortages. He notes that investing in such housing could alleviate issues related to aging homeowners and stimulate local economies by freeing up larger homes for new residents.