Qlet the serious things begin! ». Around the table, the tone is set between the players. Around thirty elderly people are on site to share a few games of lotto in a good mood. They are part of the senior associations of Béthune and certain independent residences in the surrounding area.
Among these beautiful little people is Louise, 85, who has lived here since last December. “Here I feel at home” confides the former special education teacher. “I was allowed to bring back my green plants and even my little canary, Titi”adds the octogenarian with a hint of a smile.
Also read: in Béthune, this house on rue Saint-Pry is transformed into shared accommodation… for seniors
A multitude of services
In the Béthune Shared House, a beautiful 450 m² building, Louise quickly found her feet. “She has her own little character”, recognizes Karine Czerw, a carer who accompanies him on a daily basis. In total, five caregivers are present every day with the resident who is never left alone.
“We offer accommodation with meals, activities, medical assistance, team present 24 hours a day, cleaning, laundry”, indicates Théodora Papathanassiu who works for Cetfamille. The company that developed shared accommodation between seniors in Béthune.
This shared accommodation, set up to combat the isolation of our seniors, can accommodate up to nine residents. “It’s not really a hotel, because we share real moments of life together”, adds the manager. In fact, every day, a variety of activities are offered that bring the small community together.
Also read: We opened the doors to the new shared accommodation in Béthune, rue Saint-Pry
Soon a new roommate for Louise?
But becoming Louise’s neighbor has a cost: 1,543 euros net per month, charges included (such as APA and tax credit). Which doesn’t seem to displease Sylviane, who came to find out about shared accommodation. “Prices are just as important in nursing homes or retirement homes,” remarks the one who will soon be 80 years old.
“Here, there is space (no waiting list system) and proximity to the accompanying staff,” remarks Sylviane. She is considering joining the shared accommodation in case of health problems.
Also read: Béthune: for its manager, senior sharing embodies “the extension of home”
Louise doesn’t take a bad view of this. “I wouldn’t mind if other residents arrived,” confides the dean of the House. So, the Cetfamille company is still looking. “We continue to make visits, but it’s a lifestyle choice that involves a bit of reflection, so we’re still in the early stages,” explains Théodora Papathanassiu. So what will be the next faces of colocation? The suspense remains.
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