Rethinking Later Life Living: Could University-Based Communities Work in the UK?

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how we might reimagine where, and how, we live in later life. A recent article I read sparked this reflection: could university-based retirement communities (UBRCs), which are becoming popular in the U.S., offer something similar here in the UK? Or do we need to think differently, finding more inclusive ways to stay connected, curious, and purposeful as we age?

Here’s my current thinking, and I’d love to hear your thoughts too.

The idea of university-based retirement communities (UBRCs) is gaining traction, particularly in the U.S., offering an alternative to traditional retirement living. These communities promise intellectual stimulation, intergenerational connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. But could this model translate to the UK? Or are there more inclusive, culturally fitting ways to foster lifelong learning and community in later life?

I began reflecting on this after reading an article on LinkedIn. Rather than simply sharing it, I wanted to offer a UK perspective. The idea of moving into a purpose-built retirement flat has never appealed to me, the costs alone are daunting. But the concept of living in an intellectually stimulating, intergenerational community does spark curiosity.

A New Model for Later Life?

The traditional view of retirement, as a time to slow down, is being challenged. UBRCs offer opportunities for continued learning and engagement. But would this work in the UK, where the relationship to universities is very different? In the U.S., there’s often a strong emotional connection to one’s alma mater. In the UK, many people of my generation never attended university.

Take Matt, for instance, a skilled HGV mechanic who once dreamed of becoming an accountant but was pushed into trade school because that’s what the country needed. Or Ann, who wanted to become a hotel manager but ended up working in low-paying jobs due to family pressures. For people like Matt and Ann, would living on a university campus feel inspiring, or like a reminder of opportunities missed?

The Potential Benefits

• Intellectual Engagement: Access to lectures, events, and learning communities could offer stimulation and purpose.

• Intergenerational Connection: Opportunities to mentor and engage with students could bridge generational divides.

• Community and Well-being: Shared spaces with like-minded people could reduce loneliness and enhance mental health.

• Healthy Ageing: Staying socially and intellectually active may help slow cognitive decline.

The Challenges

• Cost: Entry fees and ongoing charges are significant and would put this out of reach for most.

• Exclusivity: If these communities cater only to those with prior university ties or wealth, they risk reinforcing inequality.

• Cultural Fit: The UK doesn’t have the same residential alumni culture.

• Institutional Risks: Financial instability in universities could threaten the model’s long-term viability.

Beyond Universities: What Else Could We Imagine?

Perhaps the real opportunity is to rethink how we create spaces for intellectual engagement and intergenerational connection, without limiting them to retirement enclaves. Some alternatives:

• Local Learning Hubs: Could retirees attend university lectures or workshops locally, without relocating?

• Intergenerational Co-Housing: Could we design housing that mixes age groups, fostering natural learning and support?

• Lifelong Learning Networks: Could employers, universities, and councils collaborate on accessible learning and mentoring programmes for older adults?

• Career Reinvention in Later Life: How might we open pathways for midlife and later-life career shifts, especially for those who missed out earlier?

Questions

• Would living in a university-based retirement community appeal to you? Why or why not?

• How can we make spaces for lifelong learning and intergenerational connection accessible to all?

• What other models could foster intellectual growth and community in later life?

• If you ever felt you missed out on education or career opportunities, how could you reclaim that now?

Final Thoughts

The rise of university-based retirement communities signals a positive shift toward more engaged ageing. But if we are to truly reimagine later life in the UK, we need models that are inclusive, affordable, and culturally relevant. Intellectual curiosity, connection, and purpose shouldn’t be privileges for the few, they should be open to all of us, at any age.

I’m curious: does this idea of university-based communities resonate with you? Or do you think there are better ways to create learning, connection, and purpose in later life?

Please leave a comment, I’d love to know how you’re reimagining this stage of life.