14/10/2026
Wish we could be more like this in Scotland.
In the Dutch city of Deventer, there's a retirement home with some unusual residents.
Living alongside about 160 seniors are a handful of university students.
And they don't pay a cent in rent.
The home is called Humanitas Deventer. Years ago, its director, Gea Sijpkes, received a letter from a student complaining about the noise and terrible conditions in student housing.
She had an idea.
Her building had some small apartments that weren't ideal for elderly residents. They'd be perfect for students. So she made them an offer.
Live here for free. In exchange, spend at least 30 hours a month being a good neighbor.
That's it. No nursing duties. Just company.
The students watch sports with the residents. They celebrate birthdays together. They cook simple dinners, share stories, and sit with people when they're sick.
One student moved in at 19. His neighbor was 72 years older than him. When he got home from class, he'd stop by and visit her for an hour.
The students can come and go as they please, and even have friends over. There's only one real rule.
Don't be a nuisance to the elderly.
"It's important not to isolate the elderly from the outside world," Sijpkes said.
One of the residents put it best.
The students bring the outside world in 💛
