BENEFITS TO MULTIGENERATIONAL HOUSING, IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

51 million Americans live in multigenerational homes. According to a Pew Research Center analysis of the latest US Census Bureau data, 16.7% of the population – or 51 million Americans – live in a house with at least two adult generations.

While it’s true that many cultures have long embraced the concept, there are clear industry indications that this movement is on the rise and becoming more appealing to a broader array of families. In fact, today’s top builders are aggressively responding to this trend with specific home models designed to meet the needs of multigenerational households. One of America’s leading home builders, Lennar, offers just one example of how builders are responding. In 2011, Lennar introduced their “NextGen” model following research that showed 55% of its buyers nationwide are purchasing these homes with intent of bringing aging parents into the residence.

So, while it may not be the answer for all families, there are some meaningful benefits to multigenerational housing:

Pooled Finances – Sharing household expenses can be a benefit for all. Many seniors still live in the larger homes where they once raised their families, so if they now live alone or on a fixed income, home maintenance can be costly. The costs of assisted living or nursing residences are also on the rise and don’t always offer the same square footage or independent conveniences that can be found in a multigenerational single family home.

Child and Senior Care – The peace of mind and cost savings of built-in child care – or aging senior care – is attractive to many families.

Avoiding Isolation – While most multigenerational homes offer seniors ample privacy and independence, there is an element of comfort given to seniors who would otherwise be living in isolation from their family.

So, is it right for your family? While newly-built homes look to incorporate universal design and aging in place features to successfully address multigenerational family living (and if a multigenerational home doesn’t offer universal design functionality, look elsewhere), there are also families who will choose to remain in their existing homes while moving in aging parents. If this is the case, there are many home modifications that should be considered to ensure the safety and comfort of aging seniors. Be sure to consult a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) like AIP Designs. CAPS is a designation developed by the National Association of Home Builders Remodelers™ Council, in collaboration with the AARP, NAHB Research Center and NAHB Seniors Housing Council to ensure a specially-trained and skilled partner.

AIP Designs pairs the expertise of an award-wining interior designer with the medical qualifications of a physical therapist to deliver a unique and innovative Universal Design solution for large-scale commercial properties and individual homeowners. Company founders Tammy Kaplan and Dina Leyden each bring nearly three decades of experience in their respective fields and are CAPS certified. For additional blog posts, visit our website at www.AgingInPlaceNJ.com.