Factors in social interaction in cohousing communities

Cohousing communities can be considered alternatives for living independently in old age. However, currently the factors that influence the success of these communities are unclear. Based on literature and case studies gathered by students a new interaction- model was created that shows the relevant factors on an individual level. Based on the results it was concluded that physical design factors influence social interactions in a cohousing communities and that both age and the set of values, goals and behaviour of the individual are important factors. Living in a cohousing community means that the social context and the organisation of the physical environment are significantly different than living in a regular neighbourhood. As soon as people attend such a community they are faced with a change in both formal and informal social interactions. These effects sometimes result in a negative experience. This study concentrates on establishing whether the problems occurring nowadays can be partly controlled or even solved by the physical characteristics. For this it is vital to first establish the social and other related aspects that influence social interactions in a cohousing community