January 19, 2026 by
You’ve probably felt it yourself: housing costs are climbing, caregiving needs are growing, and the old idea that every generation lives in a separate house doesn’t always fit real life anymore. That’s why more families are starting to say, “What if we all lived together?”—not just for a weekend visit, but for good.
Multigenerational living, bringing your parents home to live with the rest of your family, is on the rise in a big way. Recent data shows there are now around 6 million multigenerational households in the U.S., accounting for nearly 60 million people: four times as many as in the 1970s. And more than a quarter of prospective homebuyers say they’re actively interested in homes that can support multiple generations.
Is multigenerational living right for your family? Here’s what you need to think through first.
Why So Many Families Are Choosing to Live Under One Roof
Naturally, money is part of the story, but not the whole story.
- Shared costs. With home prices and interest rates staying high, combining resources can make homeownership or staying in a cherished home more realistic. Sharing utilities, groceries, and taxes can take pressure off everyone’s budget.
- Built-in caregiving. Adult children can keep a closer eye on an aging parent’s health and safety, while grandparents may help with child care. It becomes a circle of support instead of one person trying to do it all.
- Emotional closeness. When an older adult is right down the hall instead of across town, it’s easier to share everyday moments: morning coffee, homework help, a quick check-in after a doctor’s appointment. That closeness can ease loneliness and bring a stronger sense of purpose for everyone.
The Upsides for an Older Loved One
If you’re caring for an aging parent, you might already see some of the benefits of multigenerational living:
- They’re less likely to feel isolated when the routines of the household naturally include them.
- You can spot changes in mood, mobility, or memory sooner when you see them daily.
- Health emergencies may be caught earlier when someone is nearby to notice subtle warning signs.
Some studies even suggest that older adults in supportive, multigenerational households may live longer and feel more connected.
But Let’s Be Honest: It’s Not Always Easy
As cozy as the idea sounds, living together can also bring friction.
Maybe your mom feels like she’s “in the way” in your kitchen. Maybe your parent has strong opinions about how you’re raising your kids. Maybe you’re the one starting to feel like there’s no corner of the house that’s truly your own.
Common challenges include:
- Less privacy. Doors are opening and closing, people are coming and going, and it can feel like there’s no off switch.
- Different routines. One person is up at 5 a.m., another likes late-night TV. Sleep, noise, and habits can clash.
- Unclear roles. Who’s paying for what? Who handles appointments, medications, or yardwork? When this isn’t clear, resentment builds fast.
- Caregiver fatigue. Even with more people in the house, the bulk of hands-on care may still fall on you, which can be exhausting over time.
If you’re already feeling stretched thin, simply sharing a roof won’t magically fix that. In some cases, it can actually increase your sense of responsibility.
Making a Multigenerational Home Work in Real Life
If you’re considering this step, or already living it and wondering how to make it feel more sustainable, a little planning goes a long way.
- Talk about expectations before (and after) the move. Don’t wait until there’s tension to discuss money, chores, caregiving roles, and “quiet hours.” Putting agreements in writing can be surprisingly helpful.
- Protect everyone’s space. Even a small sitting area, bedroom, or kitchenette that belongs primarily to your older loved one can restore a sense of independence and dignity. And you deserve your own breathing space, too.
- Plan for the future, not just today. How will things change if your loved one needs more help walking, bathing, or managing dementia symptoms? Thinking ahead about home care support, possible home modifications, and finances can prevent crises later.
- Bring in outside support. A multigenerational setup doesn’t have to mean you do every task yourself. Home care, adult day programs, and respite services can give you breaks while helping your loved one stay engaged and safe at home.
Thinking About a Multigenerational Home? We’re Here to Support You!
If you’re weighing whether to bring an older loved one under your roof, or you’re already living together and realizing you need more support, we’re here to help.
At At Home Independent Living, we help families blend the closeness of multigenerational living with the reliable support of in-home care. Our team can provide hands-on help, a watchful presence, and meaningful connection, so home life feels more balanced for everyone.
Call us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to find out more about our in-home care in Syracuse, Clay, Camillus, and throughout Central New York.