Caring for aging parents while maintaining your own family life can feel like a delicate balancing act. What if you could create a living situation that strengthens relationships and supports everyone’s needs?
As independence is deeply valued in Western cultures, it can be daunting to take on the responsibility of care. However, with the right housing solution—such as multi-generational homes—it’s possible to create a home where all generations thrive.
In this post, we’ll explore four housing options for aging parents, including multi-generational living, that can help you achieve a harmonious family life while ensuring your parents’ well-being.
1. Home Care Services: Independent Living with Support
Many aging parents prefer to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. For these families, home care services provide a great solution. This option allows seniors to remain in their familiar surroundings while receiving professional caregiving services, either full-time or part-time, to help with daily activities such as meal preparation, personal care, and housekeeping.
I’ve worked with families who have used this approach successfully. One client’s father insisted on staying in his home, so the family hired a part-time caregiver to assist with his needs a few days a week. This allowed him to maintain his independence while easing the caregiving burden on the rest of the family.
| Pros | Cons |
| Familiar environment: Your parents stay in their home, surrounded by their belongings and memories. Customizable care: Caregivers can tailor their services to meet your parents’ specific needs. Reduced caregiver burden: The family can share the responsibility, and the need for 24/7 supervision can be minimized. | Cost: As your parents’ care needs increase, costs can escalate. Coordination: Managing caregivers and schedules can be time-consuming and complex. Safety concerns: If the home isn’t properly equipped for mobility issues, this can be a risk. |
2. Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing Facilities
When a parent’s medical needs increase or they prefer a more social environment, an assisted living facility or skilled nursing home might be a good option. I recently toured the Boone Care Spring in Union, Kentucky, and saw firsthand how these facilities can provide a great mix of medical care, comfort, and social activities for seniors.
| Pros | Cons |
| 24/7 medical care: Professional care is available around the clock. Social interaction: Residents often enjoy socializing with other seniors in the facility. Caregiver relief: Family members no longer have to handle the daily caregiving tasks. | Cost: Assisted living can be quite expensive, ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 per month. Loss of independence: Some seniors may struggle with a loss of autonomy or may not thrive in a group setting. Isolation: If the facility is far from family, it may be difficult to maintain close connections with loved ones. |
3. In-Law Suites & Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
If you want to keep your parents close by but still give them their own space, building an in-law suite or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) could be a perfect solution. These independent living spaces are often located in the basement, above the garage, or as a separate structure on the property. The ADU allows your parents to live nearby while still maintaining their privacy and independence.
Many homebuyers today are looking for properties that can accommodate multi-generational living. During my work with clients, I’ve had several families ask if a home has a basement or separate guest quarters where a parent could live independently, but still be close enough for support.
| Pros | Cons |
| Independence: Your parents can live privately while still being close to the family. Increased home value: A well-designed ADU or in-law suite can increase the value of your home. Proximity: You can easily check in on your parents without being intrusive. | Upfront costs: Building or renovating an ADU requires a significant investment. Zoning laws: Local zoning regulations may limit the type of structure you can build. Maintenance and utilities: Additional spaces come with added maintenance and utility costs. |
4. Multi-Generational Homes
For families who want to live under the same roof but still need separate spaces, multi-generational homes might be the best option. This could mean building a new home with separate living spaces for each generation or purchasing an existing multi-generational home. Some builders, like Fisher Homes, offer floor plans specifically designed for this purpose, such as their Pearson model, which features a private retreat area for parents.
An alternative is the paired patio home concept, where two homes are built side by side with separate living spaces but share a lot or property. This is a great option for families who want to be close but also need some space to themselves.
| Pros | Cons |
| Strengthened family bonds: Living close together fosters deep relationships and a sense of togetherness. Financial savings: Families can share the cost of housing, which can make it more affordable. Flexibility: These homes can often be customized to meet your family’s unique needs. | Family dynamics: Living so closely together can sometimes lead to tensions, so communication and boundaries are key. Space issues: You’ll need to plan for the potential lack of privacy or crowded spaces. Home modifications: Depending on the design, you may need to modify the home to accommodate accessibility needs. |
Why Multi-Generational Homes Are on the Rise?
In recent years, multi-generational homes have been growing in popularity. According to recent statistics, one in five Americans now lives in a multi-generational homes. These homes provide an opportunity to combine the benefits of family closeness with the ability to maintain some level of independence.
Why is this trend gaining traction?
- Affordability: Sharing housing costs between generations can make it more financially feasible.
- Family bonds: Living under one roof allows for shared experiences and strengthens family ties.
- Shared responsibilities: Caregiving and financial burdens can be spread across the family, alleviating pressure on any one individual.
Find the Right Fit for Your Family
When it comes to housing for aging parents, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every family is unique, and your specific needs and circumstances will guide the best choice for your situation. Whether you’re considering an in-law suite, investing in a multi-generational homes, or exploring other options, the key is thoughtful planning, open communication, and choosing a solution that brings your family closer together. Ultimately, caring for aging parents is about more than just finding the right housing—it’s about honoring your family, strengthening bonds, and creating a legacy that will benefit future generations.
At Team Sztanyo, we’re dedicated to helping families find homes that meet their current and future needs. If you’re exploring housing options for aging parents, considering multi-generational homes, or want to discuss other possibilities, we’re here to help. Our team can guide you through every step of the process to ensure you create a home where your family can thrive. Contact Team Sztanyo at info@teamsztanyo.com or call/text us at 513-813-6293. Let us help you find the perfect home where your family can grow stronger together!