Multi-Generational Living

Do you share a living space with your adult child? Do you have aging parents who live with you? You aren’t alone if you reside in a multi-generational household. In fact, about 1 in 5 adults live with a child over 25 years old or share living space with aging parents.

Multigenerational living is on the rise as more and more families opt to share homes with children, parents, and grandparents. And, this upward swing shows no signs of slowing. The high cost of housing, a growing senior population, and inflation, are motivating families to combine households.

There are many benefits that come from multigenerational living. For many, living with adult family members is convenient and rewarding. And, economical. But, there are challenges, too. Even if you have a great relationship with your parents or children, you are likely to experience some tension.

So, here are some questions you and your loved ones need to answer:

• What are your financial obligations and how will you share expenses?
• Which spaces will you share? Which are private?
• How will you divide household chores like cooking, cleaning, and laundry?
• How do you honor your schedules? Do you need a quiet time? Lights out?

This list is not exhaustive, and there are many things you need to consider when you combine households. Multigenerational living is dynamic, so it’s incredibly important for you talk about what you hope to gain by living together. It’s also important to meet regularly to discuss what is working and what isn’t working. Multi-generational living impacts the entire family, so you’ll need good strategies. You’ll also want a back-up plan. Living together may not work out. So, work together to make an “exit plan” — a plan that will preserve relationships when difficult circumstances arise.

Consolidating households and living together demands your effort. Your time. And, your emotional energy. But, with the right strategies in place, you can reap the benefits and the joy of multi-generational living.

For additional resources and tips, check out these links:

Changing the Narrative on Multigenerational Living

Managing a Multigenerational Home

The Continued Growth of Multigenerational Living