Multigenerational homes may be an old-world solution to new-world problems.
Since WWII, America has tried to rewrite the definition of “family” from multigenerational and interdependent to nuclear and independent. The problem is that it's an idea which only works when housing is affordable, the kids get good paying jobs right out of college, and grandparents miraculously don’t need help later in life. But, with housing in short supply, wages sitting stagnant, and the cost of senior care staying astronomically high, adult children are “boomeranging” back home, grandparents need to “age in place,” and primary homeowners are “sandwiched” in between.
Then
- 1940 - over 25% of Americans lived with three or more generations in one home
- Multigenerational homes were down to an all time low of 12% in 1980
- America mourned the loss of “traditional” values during this change
Now
- A record 60.6 million Americans now live in multigenerational households
- Living with parents is now the most popular living arrangements for those 18 to 34
How To Build A Multigenerational Home
- The obvious
- Non-slip rug pads
- Comfort height toilets
- Grab bars
- Shower seats and hand-held sprayers
- Curbless showers, walk-in tubs
- Ramps
- First floor senior suites
- Guest houses & Granny flats (ADU’s - Accessory Dwelling Units)
- The not-so obvious
- Insulation - privacy
- Independence - kitchenettes
- Baseboard paint - depth perception
- Alzheimers & Dimensia - reduce family photos on the wall
- Smart Homes with voice activation, monitoring & pattern algorithm sensors
- Next Gen home designs from major builders
Learn more this Sunday on Home with Dean Sharp "The House Whisperer"