Family. At one time, the very word conjured images of mom and dad, two kids and a white picket fence.

These days, family is a word used by many to simply describe the people they love and possibly share a home and family home activities with. It can include step-parents, foster siblings and even special friends who are no true blood relation.

For many children, their immediate family includes grandparents who live with them, and they live under the immediate and very available family ideas of elders who love and cherish them.

According to the U.S. Census 2000, 116,662 Michigan grandparents live with their own children, and 84,832 of them are responsible for their own grandchildren (younger than age 18).

As the Baby Boom generation ages, society as a whole is reconsidering arrangements for seniors. For many families, the right choice is for aging parents to find some type of assisted living, such as a retirement home or extended care facility. More and more families, however, are dealing with this most common of parents' issues by embracing an intergenerational lifestyle. 

Big Decision

Making the choice to have an aging parent move in is a big decision for all parties. It can be an exciting time as grandparents get to know their grandchildren and contribute to the daily routines already established in the family.

However, it may also signal a loss of freedom and independence for the grandparent and a lifestyle change for the younger members of the family.

There are many questions to consider before making such a substantial life change. Some of those include:

  • How will financial responsibilities be divided?
  • Who will, buy the groceries, maintain the yard, pay the bills, do the housework etc.
  • Have allowances been made for each family member to spend quality time together?
  • Does everyone have a 'space' where they can be alone?
  • Have schedules been co-ordinated so mornings and after-schools run smoothly?

If the person moving in has extensive health concerns:

  • How much daily, hands-on care will be needed? Are you qualified to provide the services required?
  • Is your house equipped for disabled living? Are wheelchair ramps, safety rails, wide doorways and single level living present and in good condition?
  • Will additional health care be required?


 

Shelly Lawson is a freelance writer.