Today, more and more families are finding themselves living in multigenerational households. Studies show that the percentage of the U.S. population living in multigenerational households
is on the rise, with 59.7 million Americans living in a multigenerational household in 2021—and that number only continuing to grow. This is often the case for a variety of reasons, from financial to medical, and while multigenerational household challenges can occur, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. At 101 Mobility, we’re dedicated to supporting those living with aging parents and we’re sharing tips on accessibility upgrades for families that keep every generation safe and comfortable. Read on to learn more about home care for families living in multigenerational households.
Why Do Families Choose Multigenerational Households?
So, why are more families than ever choosing this lifestyle? Motivations can vary greatly, but there are many multigenerational household benefits for families, from financial to cultural. While this style of living is especially common when it comes to aging-in-place seniors looking for in-home support from children and grandchildren, there are also other reasons to keep in mind.
With rising housing costs and student debt becoming more and more common, many children are also opting to move back in with their parents. This means that there are often three generations under one roof—and this comes with its share of pros and cons.
Whether the reason you or your parents opt for multigenerational living is advancing Alzheimer’s, decreased mobility, vision loss—or if it’s just to be closer to the grandkids and save on monthly bills—there are some things you should know before the big transition. Explore our intergenerational living guide to learn more about home care for families living in multigenerational households.
Multigenerational Living Tips
While multigenerational living may cause conflict, there are many steps you can take to ease into the transition more smoothly, from implementing accessibility upgrades for families to setting boundaries. Consider these tips and resources for surviving a full nest and tackling potential conflicts that may come along with having your parents or children move in.
Setting Up Accessible Private & Shared Zones
Wondering where to start when it comes to multigenerational living? Consider taking steps to prioritize good space planning. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their home and have their own privacy. By creating “retreat” suites with things like sound-isolating doors and separate baths, everyone can have their own space and feel welcome. You may have to get creative if space is limited, but room dividers or curtains can help. In addition, you’ll want to design flexible common areas that can adapt as family roles change. Have a den? You may want to convert it into a hobby room or a bedroom depending on your family’s unique needs. Explore our living space comfort solutions designed to enhance home care for families living in multigenerational households.
Installing Home Modifications for Aging Parents
If you have elderly family members moving into your home, you’ll want to keep their safety and mobility top of mind. One of the most important multigenerational living tips is to ensure your home is safe and accessible for all, but there’s good news. There are a variety of home modifications and mobility solutions available that can help make a world of difference when it comes to protecting a loved one who is aging in place. See what home modifications for aging parents we offer at 101 Mobility that may be perfect for your situation.
- Ramps: Whether you need a threshold ramp for easier access to your home, a multi-fold ramp to take with you on the go, or something else, we can help. Explore our wide range of options designed for improving quality of life for those using wheelchairs, scooters, or other assistive devices.
- Stairlifts and VPLs: Does an elderly household member face challenges navigating the stairs? We have a variety of curved, outdoor, and straight stairlifts ready to improve access when and where your family needs it most. Learn more about signs that it’s time to buy a stairlift. Vertical platform lifts are also a great alternative and can offer access to raised porches, decks, and other elevated areas.
- Grab Bars: Grab bars can be installed on nearly any wall surface in almost anywhere in the home. They’re particularly useful in the bathroom and shower. Learn how to improve bathroom safety for your aging parents.
Looking for other home modifications for aging parents? We also offer home elevators, power chairs and scooters, lift chairs, whole bathroom renovations, automatic door openers, and so much more. Explore our full list of mobility solutions. Not exactly sure where your parents’ mobility levels currently stand? Take an at-home assessment.
When dealing with home care for families living in multigenerational households, you may also want to consider larger accessibility upgrades for families, like widening doorways, installing smart lighting, or adding in slip-resistant flooring. Get more tips on accessibility upgrades for entering your home.
Budgeting and Paying for Home Mobility Modifications
While finances aren’t always fun to talk about, it’s important to be on the same page when living in an intergenerational household. Discuss how you’re going to split costs directly and upfront. You may want to try a shared expenses app or some other kind of tracker.
You’ll also want to explore additional resources that may be available. For example, if your elderly loved one is a veteran, you might want to learn about VA resources, like HISA grants. You’ll also want to check out state aging-in place programs. In addition, don’t forget to explore 101 Mobility’s flexible financing options or our rental programs to help your family more easily get the equipment they need.
Clearly Defining Communication & House rules
Want to keep the peace under one roof? We have more multigenerational living tips to consider. Set up house rules and boundaries. It can be useful to have conversations about shared responsibilities, divvying up chores for those who are physically able to help, and setting expectations. A dry-erase message board in a common area for leaving notes, appointments, or schedule changes might be helpful. Or, you may want to explore a shared digital calendar.
It’s also vital to set boundaries to protect your privacy and to plan for multigenerational household challenges that could arise. Holding weekly “house huddles” can ensure everyone is on the same page. Use this time to talk about any issues or concerns, and don’t be afraid to share your feelings. You can even create your very own intergenerational living guide with guidelines that work best for you.
Remember to also show each other some grace. Keep in mind that this is new for everyone. It can be tough for aging parents to have to move in with their children. You’ll want to be sensitive to this new life stage and what that all means to them. Losing their independence by moving in with you is probably not the arrangement they prefer, despite the perks and benefits it may bring. Keep this in mind as you establish your new normal as a multigenerational household and remember to stay open and honest. It also can be challenging to be a caregiver and 101 Mobility is here to support you as well. When learning about multigenerational living tips, it’s important to remember to prioritize yourself and your mental health, and don’t forget that you matter too. Read our tips on navigating caregiving.
And don’t forget to celebrate the opportunities that multigenerational living offers. Despite the challenges that may lie ahead, there will be many wonderful moments too. Spending meaningful time together is invaluable and you may look back on this time fondly. While focusing on home care for families living in multigenerational households, you can also use this chance to create new memories together during this new chapter.
How 101 Mobility Makes Multigenerational Living Easier
We know that multigenerational living can be tricky, but 101 Mobility is here to help—no matter what challenges arise. We offer free in-home consultations, nationwide installation, maintenance assistance, flexible payment options, and so much more. We’ll help you or your loved ones find the perfect mobility solutions and ensure your home is safe for all.
Living together under one roof doesn’t have to be daunting and you can face multigenerational household challenges head on. Use our intergenerational living guide as a resource and let’s work to get the tools you all need to succeed when it comes to home care for families living in multigenerational households. Give us a call today!
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