Living Together Across Generations: Why It’s Gaining Popularity

Housing costs are climbing, caregiving needs are increasing, and the traditional idea that each generation should live separately isn’t always practical anymore. More families are exploring long-term multigenerational living, moving beyond occasional visits or holiday gatherings to sharing a home full-time.



Multigenerational households—where grandparents, adult children, and grandchildren live together—are becoming increasingly common. Current estimates indicate that roughly 6 million households in the U.S. follow this model, totaling nearly 60 million people. That is a fourfold increase since the 1970s, reflecting significant shifts in economic pressures, lifestyle preferences, and family dynamics. In addition, surveys reveal that over a quarter of potential homebuyers are actively searching for homes designed to accommodate multiple generations, highlighting that this is no longer a niche trend—it’s a growing mainstream approach to family living.

Before making the decision, it’s important to carefully weigh both the benefits and the challenges to ensure a successful living arrangement.

Why Families Choose Shared Homes

While money is often a motivating factor, other considerations are equally important:

• Shared costs. Pooling resources can make homeownership or staying in a cherished family home more feasible. Sharing expenses such as mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and property taxes reduces financial strain and can allow families to maintain a higher standard of living than they might separately.
• Built-in support. Adult children can keep a close eye on aging parents’ health and safety, while grandparents often assist with childcare. This creates a network of mutual caregiving that benefits everyone and distributes responsibilities more evenly.
• Stronger family bonds. Daily interactions—from meals and homework help to brief check-ins after appointments—foster deeper emotional connections. Living together naturally reduces isolation, strengthens relationships, and allows family members to share in the joys and challenges of everyday life.

Benefits for Older Adults

Seniors living in multigenerational homes often experience unique advantages:

• Greater social engagement. Being involved in household routines ensures older adults remain active and connected.
• Early recognition of health changes. Family members who see their loved ones daily are more likely to notice subtle changes in mood, memory, or mobility, which allows for timely medical intervention.
• Quicker response to emergencies. Health issues or accidents can be addressed immediately when someone is nearby, providing peace of mind for both seniors and their adult children.

Studies suggest that older adults living in supportive multigenerational households not only feel more socially connected but may also enjoy longer, healthier lives, thanks to increased interaction, emotional support, and quicker access to care when needed.

The Reality of Shared Living

Despite the advantages, living together full-time can present challenges:

• Privacy issues. With multiple generations sharing a home, finding alone time or a quiet space can be difficult.
• Routine conflicts. Early risers and night owls, or differences in work schedules and hobbies, can create friction within the household.
• Ambiguous roles. Without clearly defined responsibilities for chores, finances, or caregiving duties, misunderstandings can arise and create tension.
• Caregiver strain. Even in a multigenerational household, one person may still handle most of the caregiving tasks, leading to physical and emotional exhaustion.

Sharing a roof does not automatically reduce stress; careful planning and communication are key to preventing frustration and burnout.

Making It Work in Practice

Practical strategies can help families create a harmonious multigenerational household:

• Clear communication. Discuss finances, chores, caregiving duties, and quiet hours in advance. Written agreements can prevent misunderstandings and ensure expectations are clear.
• Respect personal space. Even small private areas for seniors, children, or adults help maintain independence, dignity, and a sense of control.
• Plan ahead. Anticipate changes in mobility, cognitive function, and caregiving needs. Home modifications or additional support services may become necessary over time.
• Leverage professional help. Home care, adult day programs, and respite services provide supplemental support for families, helping to maintain safety, engagement, and well-being for all household members.

We’re Here to Help

Traditions Home Health Services assists families in combining the benefits of multigenerational living with professional in-home care support. Our team provides hands-on help, careful oversight, and meaningful social engagement, ensuring that living together feels manageable and fulfilling for everyone. Call 617-376-3711 to learn more about in-home care services in Boston, Cambridge, Newton, and throughout Eastern Massachusetts, with live-in care available in New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.