The cabinet is proposing a new subsidy for young people between the ages of 18 and 30 that gives a € 200 discount on the monthly rent if they move to a residential complex for the elderly.
This is a grant to combat the loneliness of the elderly and help them to perform household chores, the agency EFE reports.
Aimed at promoting “intergenerational living” and encouraging more contact between younger and older tenants, the grant addresses the challenges the Netherlands faces in providing care and support to the older population, while responding to the needs of the younger generation to find affordable housing.
Long-Term Care and Sports Minister Connie Helder launched the proposal and opened a consultation until the 23rd to hear what people have to say about this regime before making it viable.
The proposal provides for a rent reduction of €200 per month for rooms in retirement homes for young tenants aged between 18 and 30 “who want to actively contribute to the quality of life and interaction” between generations, which would foster a sense of community, mutual benefit and understanding .
“We are witnessing a relative increase in the number of elderly people (in the country), a smaller number of health workers to take care of them, the lack of housing and loneliness among young people. With this project, we can provide affordable housing for young people, who are always can talk or visit someone in the complex,” says Connie Helder.
For the elderly, living close to young people gives “more vitality” and “extra help and support” if they need it, so that young and old “can mean a lot to each other and learn from each other and live next to each other” by side also ensures for more understanding between them,” he explained.
Source: DN
