A (Baby) Booming Demand

Take a look around any city these days and you might notice that among the young people there are a fair number of people who look old enough to be their parents. That’s because they are. Baby Boomers are embracing city life.

It's a trend that’s happening worldwide. In the U.S., nearly one-third of all urban applications are for renters over age 60. Analysts in England report a surge in older residents trading country homes for city apartments. In China, seniors are moving to cities to be close to their children and gain access to healthcare expertise. At the same time, retirement experts are lauding the benefits of big cities in Europe, Asia and the U.S.

Older adults are finding cities easy to navigate with mass transit and walkable neighborhoods. They often find better access to healthcare. With moves to cities, women and men are happy with opportunities to meet friends and socialize. Also, city life offers an endless supply of culture, cuisine, and amenities.

Some senior living communities are paying attention. In France, Domitys offers independent living for seniors in close to 100 cities. In London, an over-55 complex has opened in one of the most bustling parts of the city.

“The women and men in the Baby Boomer generation revolutionized the world as young activists and then as parents and consumers. Let’s pay close attention as they continue to change the status quo,” said Bruno Vaquette, CEO, Sodexo Global Seniors.

Learn more about Sodexo Senior Living services.