If you are in the midst of raising young children right now, you may not be concerned about fitting an aging parent into your household. But, as The Baby Boomer Generation grows older, there are going to be a lot of families looking for ways to merge young and old alike. One of the most popular trends these days is the return of the multi-generational household. Creating an in-law suite offers many benefits to your household. 

Benefits of Families Living Together

Once considered the norm, having several generations living under the same roof is making a resurgence. There are a lot of reasons why families are moving in together.

  • The High Cost of Living: Rising housing costs can leave many older adults struggling financially. On the flip side, rising debt is keeping some younger adults from getting ahead. One of the benefits of pooling their resources is that it allows families to move to better neighborhoods, or enjoy less stress financially.
  • Ill Health: As parents age, it can get harder for them to take care of a home alone, and senior living arrangements can be pricey. Sometimes the best alternative is to bring the parent into your own home where they can enjoy their Golden Years amongst family that can help out.
  • Childcare: It isn’t always the senior who needs the help. Some multigenerational homes are devised to allow grandparents to care for younger children (and keep a closer eye on teenagers). This not only saves on childcare costs, but it also gives the kids the time and attention they need from an adult at home.

Are You Ready to Open Your Home to an Older Family Member?

Maybe your parents live too far away to make regular visits and it worries you that they are alone. Or maybe your Dad isn’t getting around as easily as he once did. Perhaps it’s time to consider moving them in with you. But wait! You like your privacy (and they like theirs). Sure, you love your parents, but can you live with them again?

Rising housing costs can leave many older adults struggling financially. On the flip side, rising debt is keeping some younger adults from getting ahead. One of the benefits of pooling their resources is that it allows families to move to better neighborhoods, or enjoy less stress financially.

Welcoming an older family member into your home doesn’t have to mean that everyone must give up their own space — or way of life. Depending on the style of your home (and your budget), there are a variety of options for creating an in-law suite.

The Stand Alone Home

If you have the space, you may want to consider building a small cottage on your property. This will keep your parents close enough to keep an eye on, without infringing on your family dynamics.

A Private Getaway

The most popular in-law suite option is the private “apartment” that connects to the main house. This style of suite usually features its own entrance and comes complete with a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and living area. Laundry may also be included.

The private getaway offers the ability to check in on aging parents (through an indoor entry), while also giving everyone their own living area. The nice thing about this option is the ability to include your parents in family meals and entertainment, but still enjoy your own separate “home.”

The In-the-House Option

If space doesn’t allow for you to set up a complete apartment for your aging parent, why not consider converting a room or two into their own private space? This may include a sitting room and bedroom, along with a private bath. If room allows you may even want to create a small but functional kitchenette, that allows your parent to enjoy their own meals from time to time. While they have access to the rest of the house, it gives them some private space to escape to when a hectic household becomes tiresome.

Whether you decide to set up a space inside your home with the rest of the family or opt to build a truly private sanctuary for your aging parents, the experts at Quality Craftsmen are ready to help you design and build the perfect in-law suite. Call today to schedule your project!