This 'Airbnb for the Elderly' Could Curb Loneliness in Cities

The sharing economy largely caters to the needs of young, mobile residents. But in crowded cities, where older residents often feel isolated and lonely, there may be an even greater need to accommodate the elderly.

The soon-to-launch Freebird Club offers a room-sharing service for those over 50. The service closely resembles Airbnb: members rent out their spare rooms for a fixed nightly rate. The goal, according to the company’s founder Peter Mangan, is to form new networks among middle-aged and elderly folks and encourage their continued mobility.