It is not uncommon to find a family living within a multi-generational household. With the need for many to conserve financial resources, living within a larger group allows for lower housing expenses and affordable child care.  Among many cultures this is how they preserve family traditions and values. Another reason for families joining households is for home health care purposes. It may not be within monetary means to send an elderly loved one to a nursing home for care. In other circumstances it may be that the family prefers to do the care giving themselves.

Despite the reason for which families are coming back together, one thing is certain: living in a multi-generational household has many rewards.

Living with extended family members creates a higher level of emotional bonding that is difficult to achieve when you don’t see someone on a daily basis. Parents and children may be close because they have already fostered that connection in the past, but this living arrangement allows for grandparents and grandchildren to do the same. At the same time, young children learn how to respect and care for older generations. Experiences and memories will occur that will stay with the children forever.

Living within a larger group can bring a sense of meaning to seniors. After experiencing an empty nest and the loss of a spouse loneliness can set in. It is not uncommon for the elderly to feel as though an important part of their life that defined them is now missing. Living together, and playing a role in the lives of children and grandchildren once again can reignite an enjoyment for life. Even if Mom or Dad is not physically able to do much around the house, giving them a role like listening to Johnny do his reading homework will allow them to help in their own way.

Of course there are the financial benefits, which is the main reason why American families choose to live in multi-generational households today. Individuals are able to pool resources while saving in many areas. Housing costs are reduced because one or more people do not need to rent or pay a mortgage on their own. Others may be able to save while they go to school or look for a new job. Food costs and bills go down if the price is being split. It really all depends on the arrangement made between you and your family members.

If home health care needs are the reasons for joining households, then there is the added reward in knowing that you are doing a good thing for your loved one. Home care is proven to be a positive experience that patients can reap the health benefits from just by being in a comfortable caring environment. The home health care NH clients rely on is MAS Home Care. It is an affordable option and allows your family to be together, while receiving excellent care and needed services. Just because you live together does not mean all the pressure of health care needs to be put on the family. There are professionals out there who can help.

Call MAS Home Care of New Hampshire today to find out more information.

MAS Home Care provides in-home care services in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.