Such a community needs good planning and steady guidance, but when it works, it's wonderful -- as at the co-operative dormitory I experienced at university. What with longer lives and fewer cohesive extended families these days, like-minded elders could well form their own best support systems. (Check out the historical Beguines, or the modern film-based retirement complex in Southern California. Of course, actors have more money....) Still, this idea could be just the ticket for warm gathering-in, and a terrific vehicle for sharing-out. I love the idea of residence groups holding music circles, workshops, classes and even festivals! I hope to retire soon, and I'd prefer finding just such a setup. Rock on, fellow folk geezers!
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