There are many pluses to sharing a home with family. The sentimentality, the extra set of hands when you’re working on a project, or the backup babysitting are all things that live within the walls of a multi-generation home.
But when the good things outweigh the bad, is a multi-generation home right for you? Or, in other words, are there problems with living in a multi-generation home?
Check out these and other problems with living in a multi-generation home below.
1. Less Privacy
Living in a multi-generation home can be challenging when it comes to privacy. It can be difficult to have time and space to yourself and to have any real sense of independence.
You may share bedrooms or other living spaces with other young people or with older generations. You may also have limited access to personal technology.
It can be difficult to maintain existing relationships since private time may be scarce. While living in a multi-generation home offers many positive opportunities, it can be difficult to adjust to the lack of privacy.
2. Extra Housework
One of the biggest concerns of a large household is extra housework. Everyone in the home needs to understand that all members of the household need to pitch in with tasks such as taking out the trash, vacuuming, and doing the dishes.
Without someone taking on the role of delegating chores, the home can quickly become a mess. This can lead to stress, arguments, and even resentment.
When this happens, it can be difficult to make it a pleasant experience for everyone. Everyone needs to work together to keep the home in order and make sure that no one feels like they are being taken advantage of.
3. Potential Family Conflicts
Parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, and other family members can have different values, opinions, and habits. These issues can be aggravated when living in such close proximity to each other.
With such close quarters and crowded rooms, there are often clashes of different approaches to everyday tasks such as meal planning. Differences in parenting styles can cause tensions and create arguments.
It’s essential for families living in multi-generational homes to understand the potential conflicts. Clear communication and understanding are key to successful living together.
4. Prone to Noisy Environment
Living in a multi-generation home can be overwhelming due to the chaotic noise levels. It can be difficult to relax due to the constant noise.
Young children and teens are often boisterous, especially when playing together. Older family members often stay up late watching television or talking on the phone.
If the large family is out of sync with regard to daily routines, the clashing noises and activities among the family members can become difficult to handle. It is important to establish rules and regulations within the multi-generation household in order to create a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Disparity of Values and Expectations
Having different generations in a single home can present problems stemming from disparity of values and expectations. Grandparents may not agree with the parenting styles of the parents and vice versa. Younger generations may not appreciate the advice of the elders, or accept their values and principles.
There may be a disparity in living standards. This can lead to conflict, as tension rises when expectations between generations vary. Even more, there may be conflict in how hard work is valued, and how difficult it may be for grandparents who are used to the old ways.
Working together and respecting each other’s values and beliefs can help bridge this gap, as well as live a separate, independent life.
6. Strains of Financial Difficulties
Each member needs room, food, and other basics that can be costly over time. There is also often a mix of incomes within the home and the added financial responsibility of helping others can lead to guilt and anxiety within the family.
It can be difficult to balance needs against the limited resources available. Money is often tight and arguments emerge when making financial decisions that need to be made.
The overall financial issues can put a strain on relationships as there is less money to go around. It is important to openly discuss financial matters in order to avoid issues.
7. Clash of Different Lifestyle Practices
In some cases, older generations may see entirely different lifestyles practiced in their home. For example, one generation may practice a vegan lifestyle, while another generation does not. It can lead to disputes over food.
Different generations may have varying opinions on the appropriate methods for disciplining children. This can lead to disagreement and resentment among family members.
The generational gap in terms of technology and communication can lead to communication issues. The elderly may often find the use of electronic devices excessive and distracting, while the younger may find it completely natural.
8. Upgrades and Remodelling
Living with a large family brings with it a unique set of problems. One of these problems is the need to make upgrades and remodel the home to accommodate both the needs of children and seniors.
Retrofitting a home to meet the needs of an aging population involves making changes such as widened doorways, new showers with grab bars, and generally improved accessibility throughout the living space. This process can be costly for a family on a tight budget, but it is an invaluable help for elderly parents.
Upgrades and remodels for multigenerational homes can improve the quality of life for everyone living there, but they can also bring with them an added financial burden. Planning ahead of time will solve the financial issues of home upgrades.
Solve Problems in Your Multi-Generation Home Today
Living in a multi-generation home can be both rewarding and challenging. The rewards include intergenerational support, family closeness, and more. However, problems can include space availability, privacy, and personal boundaries.
It is important to take the time to plan ahead and speak openly with family members to ensure everyone’s needs and expectations are met.
If you’re considering living in this type of living arrangement, make sure to consider these potential problems and plan accordingly.
