In the 1940’s, approximately 25% of households represented multi-generational living. In the years prior to that, the percentage was even higher, as immigrants from all over the world brought the cultural standard with them.
But by the 1950’s, single family subdivisions began popping up across America, and there was a fairly rapid decline in the multi-generational model. By the 1980’s, only 10-12% of the population were living under a roof with their parents or grandkids. In fact, living as an autonomous family unit in a single family home was considered the goal for most couples and their children; bringing multiple generations in was losing favor and support.
Return to the Extended Family
Over the last 10 years, however, we have seen a resurgence in interest in this type of living. The trend is partially caused by millennials moving back in with mom and dad; and older children looking for ways to take care of aging parents is contributing as well.
Multiple generations living under one roof allows for everyone to live more economically – there is only one house payment to share, one set of utility bills, even shared groceries for those who cook and eat together. Not only is this type of arrangement a financial boon for all involved, but a lot of relational issues can addressed as well.
For instance, studies have shown that children who live with extended family, most notably grandparents, grow up to be more well-adjusted and secure in their identity and personality. Having an extra “layer” of family who loves and supports them has a markedly positive influence on their upbringing, and also adds a “softer” authority figure to the mix. Having grandparents in the home also helps to relieve some of the stress of busy daily life, as they can help the parents with meals, watching kids, or doing light chores.
Adult children with aging parents also are finding comfort in having mom or dad living with them instead of alone. As long as there are not significant medical or emotional issues, adult children like the idea of their parents not being alone, and feel safer about their well-being overall. If a parent is still quasi-independent but can’t live alone, sharing a residence is a much more affordable alternative to nursing homes or assisted living.
For young adults finishing school and finding the reality of rent and school loans too expensive to handle, stepping back under mom and dad’s roof may not be the ideal situation – but it does allow for more leeway to find a good job and get their feet under them.
Can Multi-Generational Living Work for You?
If this all sounds a little too “close quarters” for you, remember that 20th and 21st century America is one of the only times and places where this model is not familiar. All over the world, multi-generational living is the norm to this day, and although not as prolific as it once was, it not nearly as foreign as it seems to us. The benefits of close relationships with extended family are still enjoyed by many diverse nationalities here in the United States, and it seems to be catching on.
There are many ways to accommodate multiple generations under one roof. Nearly all of the most preferable designs include allowing for personal space and separation for each generation if possible – giving each their own bedroom and bathroom at a minimum. Mother-in-law suites, garage apartments, modular additions, and even tiny house cottages in the backyard are all variations on this theme.
If you are considering multi-generational living and would like to explore your opportunities regarding renovations or additions to your current property, call Lindahl Construction. We have been building homes for Sarasota and Longboat Key families of all sizes for years – and we would love to build yours.