As life expectancies increase, more and more Californians are faced with deciding whether to have their elderly parents live with them. While there are undeniable benefits to living with aging family members, several potential drawbacks should be carefully considered before making a decision.
Pros of Having Your Senior Parents Live with You
Emotional support. Living with elderly parents offers many benefits, including emotional support. The comfort and guidance that comes from family cannot be replaced, and having elderly parents nearby allows for constant access to this invaluable support system. In an age where senior living options are becoming increasingly popular, paying attention to the value of intergenerational living arrangements is important. Not only does that option provide the opportunity for older individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes, but it also fosters a strong relationship between generations.
Financial benefits.
Living with elderly parents can be a great opportunity to experience all the financial benefits. For starters, there is no need to pay rent or a mortgage since the home is already owned. Additionally, the parents may split or fully cover utility bills. From groceries to home repairs, the reduced expenses can significantly increase savings for both parties. While many people may consider a senior living community, there are financial advantages to staying at home too.
Shared responsibilities.
Another advantage of living with elderly parents is shared responsibilities. When adult children decide to have their aging parents move in, responsibilities around the home are divided and shared. This alleviates the physical and emotional strain of caring for elderly parents alone. It also provides support for seniors who may not be able to perform certain tasks on their own due to age-related limitations. In some cultures, multiple generations living together is the norm, and shared responsibilities serve as a way to foster strong family bonds.
Building stronger relationships.
Having elderly parents move can also allow family members to strengthen their relationships. Living under the same roof can foster a closer bond, as family members share meals and experiences they may not otherwise have. In some cases, living with elderly parents can even provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment in caring for them.
Cons of Having Your Senior Parents Live with You
Loss of privacy and independence. One significant drawback of living with elderly parents is the potential loss of privacy and independence. In some cases, adult children may feel they have regressed in their own lives, as they are once again living with their parents. Additionally, elderly parents may require assistance with activities such as bathing and dressing, which can make younger generations feel their privacy has been violated.
Personal sacrifices.
Living with elderly parents can include many difficulties and require personal sacrifices. While it may seem like a logical decision to care for aging parents, it can put a strain on daily life. Sacrifices such as time, money, and social life can all be affected when living with parents who require constant care and attention. Personal accomplishments and goals may also be put on hold to focus on the needs and demands of elderly parents. While it’s important to take care of loved ones, it’s also important to consider its impact on one’s well-being.
Strained relationships. Living with elderly parents can also place a strain on familial relationships. Adult children may become frustrated with the amount of care their parents require, while elderly parents may feel as though they are a burden on their children. Additionally, living together can exacerbate preexisting tensions between family members, ultimately leading to conflict.
Health concerns
Living with elderly parents also carries potential health risks. Older adults may be more susceptible to illnesses like the flu or pneumonia, which can be especially dangerous for those with weakened immune systems. While it may seem noble to keep parents at home, doing so could harm their health. Assisted living centers offer specialized care for elderly individuals, ensuring their safety and providing medical attention when needed.
Living with elderly parents can be both rewarding and challenging. While the emotional support and financial benefits are significant, the potential loss of privacy, independence, and strained relationships should be considered. Ultimately, the decision to live with elderly parents should be made after carefully considering the pros and cons. Communication and understanding are key to ensuring a successful living arrangement, and both generations should be open to compromise and willing to work together.
At Terraza of Cheviot Hills, we’ll show you how great assisted living can be. We offer exceptional assisted living services focusing on independence, on-site healthcare services, and a beautiful setting. Contact us today to learn more about our senior living community and how we can help you and your loved one build a happy, healthy life.
