Context and Background
The article titled "The effects of cohousing model on people’s health and wellbeing: a scoping review" was published by BioMed Central, a well-known publisher of open-access scientific journals. The authors of the study, including Juli Carrere, Alexia Reyes, Laura Oliveras, Anna Fernández, Andrés Peralta, Ana M. Novoa, Katherine Pérez, and Carme Borrell, conducted a literature review to explore the relationship between cohousing models and health outcomes. The review was published on October 6, 2020, in Public Health Reviews.
Importance of Housing
Housing is recognized as a fundamental social determinant of health. The research highlights that while adverse effects of poor housing on health are well-documented, the positive impacts of cohousing—where individuals intentionally live together—on health and wellbeing are less understood. This study aims to synthesize existing evidence regarding the health benefits associated with cohousing arrangements, which can foster social networks and enhance community well-being.
Methodology
The authors utilized a scoping review method, conducting a comprehensive literature search in various databases, including PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, and JSTOR. The search was performed in May 2019, yielding a total of 2,560 articles, from which 25 full-text articles were selected for analysis. These articles reported on 77 cohousing experiences primarily in high-income countries. The studies focused on various health outcomes, including physical and mental health, quality of life, and psychosocial determinants such as social support and community engagement.
Key Findings
Out of the ten studies that analyzed the impact of cohousing on physical and mental health, eight found a positive association. Additionally, 22 studies reported beneficial effects on psychosocial determinants of health. The findings support the notion that cohousing can reduce social isolation and enhance wellbeing, particularly among older populations. However, the quality of evidence was generally low, with most studies being cross-sectional or qualitative, which limits causal interpretations.
Psychosocial Benefits
Cohousing arrangements were shown to improve social support networks, sense of community, and feelings of security. Among the studies reviewed, many residents reported reduced loneliness and increased opportunities for social interaction, which are crucial for mental health, particularly among seniors. The architectural design of cohousing spaces often facilitates social interactions, contributing to the overall wellbeing of residents.
Cohousing as a Sustainable Model
Cohousing has seen a resurgence in various regions, including Europe and the USA, driven by a desire for community and sustainable living. The model addresses issues of housing affordability and provides a viable alternative to conventional housing arrangements. It promotes a sense of belonging and community cohesion, which are vital for improving health outcomes.
Limitations and Future Research
Despite the promising findings, the authors caution against drawing definitive conclusions due to the limited data and methodological weaknesses in the studies reviewed. They highlight the need for more rigorous research to better understand the causal relationships between cohousing and health outcomes and to explore the impact of various socioeconomic factors on these relationships.
In conclusion, the scoping review underscores the potential of cohousing as a sustainable housing model that can enhance health and wellbeing through strong community ties and support networks. The study advocates for further investigation into the diverse dimensions of cohousing to inform public health policies and housing strategies across Europe and beyond.