In other cultures, multi-generational living is taken for granted. We are also gradually returning to it, as it brings many advantages. However, you have to be sure that it works and take care of a few things.
Definition of multigenerational living
In multigenerational living, different generations, from young to old, live in close proximity to each other and form a community. This can be an extended family in one house, but also a community of neighbours, a so-called elective kinship. Especially with unknown people, it is very important to fit together. It can bring many advantages if everyone has a task and can develop themselves. But caution is advised: Multigenerational living is not for everyone and it needs to be well thought out.
Living with several generations – this is how it works
A number of things should be considered before making this lifelong decision. Firstly, the relationship with the family is very important, and secondly, the house should be large enough and offer enough rooms so that everyone can come to rest. Boundaries should be clearly set so that there is not too much interference between the generations. For example, if a grandmother interferes too much in the mother’s upbringing of her child, this could have negative consequences.
- The most important point is to get along with your flatmates. A number of things can be discussed in advance. Possession, personal and spatial boundaries, as well as financial matters should be clarified in writing if possible. Tasks should be clearly distributed and no one should overstep boundaries. It is best to create a balance so that everyone contributes equally to the community.
- The environment should be right so that everyone feels comfortable. The house should be big enough so that everyone can withdraw when they need peace and quiet. Perhaps it would help to designate communal spaces where people can get together. A cramped city flat would be a disadvantage here. Rather, choose a large house with a garden. You can find offers of multigenerational living with selected neighbours in regional media or in the city administration.
- Everyone should have a right of co-determination. At best, joint dialogue is sought at a weekly meeting. Every point of view should be heard and a solution sought. Residents should be able to criticise, be willing to compromise and strive to live together in harmony. It is important that everyone can develop freely and at the same time be there for the community.
- The chemistry should be right. After all, living together must also be fun. Convivial outings, conversations and communal meals should be part of it. After all, you should enjoy spending time together.
- Remember that no loners are made for this way of life and helpfulness is the basis of this living situation. You take responsibility as soon as you have chosen the way of life of multi-generational living. This is especially true for the children and seniors who need to be taken care of. You can expect that there will always be hustle and bustle at home. At the same time, it will not be lonely and will bring a lot of joy, but also problems.
Advantages of multigenerational housing
Multi-generational living can bring many benefits. The family can be there for each other. Parents can go to work in peace while grandparents look after the children. This can be very enriching and fulfilling for the older generation. Such a sense of life can even prolong life and they do not have to go to a care facility if there is always someone in the house to look after them.
- The children are cared for when there is always someone in the house. This way you can make sure they do their homework, don’t do anything wrong and that their needs are taken care of. They get wise advice from the oldest generation, which is an advantage when parents don’t have time.
- The adults are relieved when someone takes care of the children, pets or their parents. Thus, they can earn money in peace and do not need a crèche, an animal shelter or a care facility, which would also be a financial burden. The older generation can also help them with wise advice, for example about the household, education or other life issues.
- Seniors have a task, a purpose and a good time with their grandchildren or the children in the neighbourhood. They feel needed and do not have to be lonely or sent to a nursing home. The contact with the children is good for them and the younger generation will be grateful for taking so much time for them.
- The positive thing is that through a community, you can also choose an elective kinship with whom you get along well. If one’s own family doesn’t want to join, has passed away or one doesn’t get along so well, this is a good compensation to choose one’s own family, so to speak.
- It is very effective to live in a community. If something needs to be bought or repaired in the house and garden, there is certainly at least one person who can do it or it is shared financially. The cohesion and mutual help saves a lot of trouble. Multigenerational houses with elective kinship are even subsidised by the state.
