More families are choosing to keep everyone under one roof, and it’s no wonder—multi-generational living has surged, with nearly 60 million people embracing it by 2021. This trend is all about family support and resource-sharing, particularly for the sandwich generation juggling care for both their kids and aging parents.
What’s a Multi-Generational Home? Simply put, it’s a setup where parents, their adult kids, and sometimes grandkids live together. This can mean shared spaces like kitchens and living rooms or separate areas on the same property, like those handy accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Ways to Create a Multi-Generational Housing
Converted Spaces: Turn that attic, basement, or garage into a living area.
Home Expansions: Add extra rooms or floors to your house.
ADUs: Build a self-contained unit with its own kitchen and bathroom, either attached to the main house or as a separate structure.
Mobile Homes: If local rules allow, consider a mobile home on your property.
Wheel Pad: PAD’s Personal Accessible Units
Perks of Multi-Generational Living
Closer Bonds: Living together strengthens family ties and provides emotional support, which is especially valuable for the sandwich generation balancing care for children and elderly parents.
Shared Costs: Splitting living expenses can make life more affordable.
Property Value Boost: Improvements like ADUs can increase your home’s market value.
Help with Childcare and Eldercare: Family members can pitch in with childcare and caring for elderly relatives.
Challenges to Watch Out For
Privacy Issues: More people can mean less personal space.
Potential Conflicts: Different routines and lifestyles can cause friction between family members. .
Space Needs: You might need to remodel or expand your home .
Managing Expenses: Shared costs can be tricky without clear agreements.
Tips for Adapting Your Home
Separate Entrances: Give ADUs or other separate spaces their own entryways.
Accessibility: Think step-free entries, wider doors, and bathroom safety bars for aging family members.
Flexible Spaces: Design common areas that can adapt as family needs change.
Safety First: Install large windows for emergency exits, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and comply with safety codes.
Financing Your Multi-Generational Home
Home Equity Loans: Use your home’s equity for funding renovations.
Personal Loans: Get an unsecured loan based on your credit for smaller projects.
Government Programs: Check out grants or low-interest loans available for home modifications.
Written by: Heather Brooks - How 2 Age Your Way
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