{Adriana Lopez for Porch.com}
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted how many families see themselves and the world around them. Whether it’s due to job losses, the closing of schools, or concerns about an aging loved one’s health and well-being, more families are considering living in multigenerational households. While this living arrangement might not work for everyone, it does have its own set of unique benefits. The pandemic has undoubtedly changed our lives, but it’s also impacting many families’ thoughts about how they live together. Read on to learn more about multigenerational homes and whether this is something that could work for you and your family.
What is a multigenerational home?
A multigenerational home consists of at least two generations of family living together. Whether it’s an older adult child and their parents or a married couple and their young children and grandparents, the term essentially means that more than one generation lives together under the same roof. Living together with other family members certainly has its challenges, but some people see the benefit in this setup. There is a lot to consider before determining whether living in a multigenerational home is right for you. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons as well as key considerations before you decide to take the leap.
When and why is a Multigenerational home right for you or not?
It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of living in a multigenerational house before you commit.
Pros and cons of living with your family. People in different age groups will have different lifestyles and different needs. Living under the same roof can cause conflict about schedules, sharing bathrooms, and mealtimes. However, a pro of living in a multigenerational home is that you’ll get to bond and spend more quality time together. It really comes down to what your priorities in life are and what your current lifestyle demands.
Challenges of living with extended family. Living with a large family can be challenging in many ways. Whether it’s a lack of privacy, space, or free time, having many people together under one roof can feel constricting for some people. If you’re living with an elderly family member, responsibilities about who will be the caregiver can cause issues. The same applies if there are infants or young children in the house.
Benefits of living with your family. When you live under the same roof, you have an opportunity to strengthen family relationships. As a child of older parents, you’ll be able to keep close watch over them and make sure that their needs are being met. It’s also an excellent way for your children to spend quality time with their grandparents in their golden years.
