Imagine a typical flatshare, and you might picture students or young professionals. But a quiet shift is taking place at the other end of the age spectrum, as an increasing number of older people turn to shared living. Only a decade ago, just 2.7% of SpareRoom users were aged over 55 – but by 2024, the number had risen to 7.1%, and has continued to increase since. Divorce, bereavement, limited pension incomes and the rising cost of living are some of the reasons why later-life housing is changing. For some, flatsharing is an affordable, flexible and even liberating option. We speak to a woman who embraced flatsharing in her 60s, and found a whole new lease of life.
‘SPEND YOUR MONEY ENJOYING LIFE’
Debbie Herring, 65, is retired and lives…