Multigenerational Households: A Rising Trend in Caregiving

Multigenerational households, those that consist of at least three generations living together, are greatly increasing in numbers in the US. Many adult children are choosing to move their elderly parents and loved ones into their homes for several reasons, including aging, health problems and economic considerations.

Multigenerational households were once a common occurrence in the U.S. In the late 1800’s, almost 70 percent of elderly widows lived with an adult child, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 1990, that number drastically decreased to 20 percent but the trend has reversed again. U.S. statistics show the number of parents who have moved in with their adult children increased 67 percent to 3.6 million people between 2000 and 2007.

It is important for caregivers in multigenerational households to be aware of the stress that may arise from this type of living arrangement. For those with children still at home, caring for their older relatives under the same roof can increase the stresses of caring for the rest of the family. In addition, caregivers may worry about their own health or have their own financial issues. It is also important to consider potential needs such as home modifications, the division of chores and outside assistance.

Whether the creation of a multigenerational household is permanent or temporary, sandwich generation family caregivers should keep the following tips in mind to help all family members peacefully adjust to their new living arrangement:

- Discuss the circumstances: Discuss the circumstances upfront with the entire family so that everyone understands why the arrangement is in place. Every living arrangement has its benefits and drawbacks, and in order for it to work, the benefits must be recognized and outweigh the drawbacks. In the future, remembering why one has chosen to live in a multigenerational household will help family members cope with any conflicts that may arise.

- Share responsibility: Caregiving is a family responsibility and it lessens the weight for all involved if everyone works as a team. Devise a system to help out with household chores; each person should be responsible for something that helps the whole household.

- Prepare the home: Several physical modifications may be necessary to ensure the home is safe and convenient for seniors. Make sure there is proper lighting throughout the house and no loose carpeting, cords or other hazards to help avoid falls. It also may be necessary to modify the bathroom by adding non-slip surfaces in the tub or shower and grab-bars near the tub, shower and toilet.

- Consider hiring a part-time caregiver: Help is available for those caring for their elderly parents or relatives in their homes. Hiring a trained caregiver from an in-home care agency such as Right at Home can provide much-needed respite for family caregivers. They offer individualized services ranging from companionship, meal preparation and housekeeping to personal hygiene, bathing, medication reminders and more.

- Be flexible: This new living arrangement will take adjustment time. What works at the beginning will most likely change within the first few months and even more so in the next few years. Use a trial and error approach to refine boundaries and guidelines to keep peace in the household.

With family members living longer, many people are faced with the prospect of becoming a family caregiver for a significant number of years. It is important for the family to recognize that they will not be able to tend to all the needs of their loved ones alone and that occasionally they will need to rely on others for support. Communication is the key to making a multigenerational household a beneficial experience for all.