83-Year-Old & 28-Year-Old Form Unlikely ‘Friendship’ While Living In Homeshare Together

Aug 01, 2023

An unlikely pair of housemates with a 50-year difference have become each other's best friends because of their homeshare living arrangement. Margaret Smith, 83, and Christine Rahman, 28, have forged a cherished friendship amid the ongoing cost of living crisis in London, where many people have been seeking alternative housing solutions. 

In the summer of 2022, Rahman found herself short of funds after leaving her job. Determined to avoid moving back into her family home, Rahman sought an affordable living arrangement around the city. It was during her search for a room to rent that she stumbled upon a homeshare opportunity posted on a community interest site. 

The homeshare program typically involves matching an aged person who owns a house with spare rooms to another individual by providing low-cost accommodation. In exchange, the tenant pays minimal rent and contributes to household tasks like shopping, caring for pets, helping with the use of gadgets, as well as providing companionship to the elderly, per the BBC.  

Drawn to the ad because of the unique opportunity to live with an elderly homeowner, Rahman was intrigued by the chance to be matched with Smith. The 83-year-old was a former psychologist who is legally blind and suffers from Parkinson's disease.

However, Rahman felt that living with her would be a great experience, especially with Smith’s background in psychology and fluency in French. When Rahman first visited the house, she noticed Smith’s vast collection of books and artwork. On the other hand, Smith, who learned about the homeshare scheme from her daughter, welcomed the idea of having a live-in companion to provide both practical help and much-needed companionship. 

So, for a modest rent of just over $6 a day, Rahman agreed to spend around 15 hours each week assisting Smith with household tasks. Although Rahman does not work as a professional caregiver and Smith has other carers who provide essential support, she has become an invaluable member of the household as her bond with Smith deepened. 

Speaking with the South London Press & Mercury, Rahman said that Smith was "very articulate and very friendly.” As an immigrant, Rahman grew up without her grandparents, so living with an elderly woman was enriching to her life. 

"It’s so nice to step into this world and have a different perspective – to get an insight into Margaret’s life and experiences," Rahman said.

While Rahman cooked different kinds of food for Smith to try, the elderly taught the young woman to polish her French. Rahman also helped Smith around the house even if it was not her job. Smith, who once faced solitude, now revels in the delightful company of her new friend. Rahman's enthusiasm and genuine interest have awakened her spirit, sparking joy, curiosity, and a renewed appreciation for life's little pleasures. 

"I wasn't expecting the level of commitment I got from Christine, which has really developed into quite a friendship," Smith said. She added, "We have great fun together, she feels like another daughter almost."

Rahman was never made to feel like an outsider in Smith's home and has even met the elderly's daughter, who reminded her so much of her own mother. Incidentally, Rahman’s mom also comes for dinners with the housemates, while Rahman's younger sister visits her frequently. In fact, Smith's daughter and Rahman's sister have spent some time watching theatre programs together, proving that the heartwarming connection extends beyond the housemates.

Margaret Smith and Christine Rahman's living arrangements made a significant difference in their lives. Would you ever consider joining a homeshare program if there was one in your area? Do you know of someone who might be interested as well? Then let them know about this story!