The share of older citizens is increasing, and by 2040, one in four Danes will be over the age of 65. This demographic shift puts pressure on public finances and challenges the housing market, as current supply does not meet future needs.
Although older people in Denmark generally enjoy a high quality of life, many experience loneliness. In fact, loneliness increases more in old age than at any other stage of life, affecting more than 100,000 older adults. It is particularly prevalent among the oldest citizens, whose social networks often diminish over time.
Stronger social relationships
Our research shows that living in community with others can help reduce loneliness. As many as 93% of residents in senior co-housing communities report improved quality of life, and 76% experience stronger social relationships.
In response, in 2016 we launched an initiative to reduce loneliness and enhance quality of life by developing and scaling new housing models that support social interaction and a sense of community.
Through partnerships with both non-profit and private developers, we help create senior co-housing communities and inspire broader changes in the housing market.
12,775 homes in senior co-housing communities
When we began the initiative, Denmark had around 4,200 homes in senior co-housing communities, while approximately 80,000 older people were considering moving into such communities within five years. Since then, progress has been made. Our latest mapping (2025) identifies 12,775 existing and planned homes in senior co-housing communities across the country. Still, demand remains high.
Places We Meet
In 2023, we expanded our efforts with the initiative of Places We Meet. With this initiative, we move beyond housing environments and into everyday public spaces—train stations, town squares, parks, and local shops. In short, places where older people already spend time and where there is potential to foster connection and, over time, build communities.
Places We Meet supports the development of local meeting places, each offering new approaches to strengthening the social infrastructure of cities. By creating better conditions for everyday encounters and shared experiences, these places help counter loneliness among older people.
For more information
Stig Hessellund
she@realdania.dk