Embracing Multigenerational Living

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Have you noticed more families living together, sharing not just meals but mortgages too? You’re not alone. Multigenerational living – where two or more adult generations share a home – is on the rise in Canada, echoing similar trends in the United States.

Let’s talk about what’s driving this change and how you can make it a rewarding experience for your family.

Housing Affordability: The Canadian Catalyst

In Canada and the US, one of the biggest reasons families come together under one roof is the skyrocketing cost of housing. According to Statistics Canada, nearly one million Canadian households are multigenerational, with a significant increase over the past decade. In British Columbia alone, multigenerational home construction is on the rise, as highlighted by the CBC. With average home prices in cities like Vancouver and Toronto putting single-family homes out of reach for many, families are pooling resources to buy or renovate homes that suit more people.

This isn’t just about young adults staying longer with parents. More older adults are moving in with their children to manage expenses, share caregiving responsibilities, and find companionship.

Beyond Cost: The Upside of Living Together

While affordability is a central motivator, the benefits of multigenerational living go far beyond saving money. Sharing a home means sharing life-celebrating milestones together, providing built-in childcare and supporting aging relatives. Kids get to grow up with grandparents close by, learning from family history and enjoying daily connection.

For older adults, having family nearby can reduce feelings of loneliness and make it easier to access help when needed. For busy parents, an extra set of hands can be a lifesaver.

Tackling the Challenges-Together

Naturally, sharing a home isn’t always smooth sailing. Privacy can become an issue, and different habits or generations may clash if expectations aren’t set early. The key is honest communication and practical planning.

Here’s how to make your multigenerational household work:

• Discuss Expectations Upfront: Talk about splitting costs, managing chores, and respecting personal routines before moving in together.
• Create Private Spaces: Even in smaller homes, setting aside areas for personal time can make a big difference. Consider renovations or creative use of space.
• Respect Schedules and Lifestyles: Try to accommodate everyone’s work, school, and relaxation times.
• Have Regular Family Meetings: Open dialogue can identify what’s working and what needs adjusting.

Is Multigenerational Living the Right Choice?

It isn’t for everyone, but for many, it’s a solution for both financial and emotional support. Before making the move, take a hard look at your family’s needs, your home’s layout, and whether everyone can be comfortable and respected.

If your family values connection, support, and resilience through changing economic times, multigenerational living can be incredibly rewarding-provided you plan thoughtfully and communicate openly.

Thinking about making the leap? This checklist might help:

1. Assess Your Needs and Space

☐ Identify how many people will live in the home and their specific needs (e.g., mobility, privacy, caregiving)

☐ Evaluate if your current home layout supports multigenerational living or if renovations/additions are needed

☐ Consider whether common areas (kitchen, living room, bathrooms) are sufficient and functional for all

2. Plan Finances Together

☐ Discuss how mortgage/rent, utilities, groceries, and other household expenses will be shared

☐ Agree on budgeting and bill payment methods to avoid misunderstandings

☐ Explore potential government support or tax benefits related to multigenerational households

3. Define Roles and Responsibilities

☐ Assign household chores and caregiving duties fairly according to ability and availability

☐ Set expectations for noise levels, shared spaces, guests, and quiet times

☐ Establish how conflicts will be resolved and who will mediate if needed

4. Create Private Spaces

☐ Determine each person’s or family unit’s personal space and boundaries

☐ Use room dividers, curtains or furniture placement to enhance privacy if needed

☐ Encourage respect for alone time and personal belongings

5. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

☐ Plan weekly or monthly family meetings to discuss what’s working and address concerns

☐ Keep communication open and honest to prevent small issues from growing

☐ Celebrate successes and family moments together to strengthen bonds

6. Prepare for Lifestyle Differences

☐ Respect varying schedules, hobbies, and routines among generations

☐ Be flexible and willing to compromise on shared living arrangements

☐ Encourage empathy and patience during adjustment periods

Bonus Tips:

• Keep emergency contacts and medical information accessible for all generations
• Designate a quiet “retreat” area for decompression or relaxation
• Explore community resources or support groups for multigenerational families

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