Preparing for Multi-Generational Living Part 1

And the series continues!

31 days, 31 posts.

Multi-generational living.

Today we’re backing up a bit, and for the next few posts we’ll look at ways to prepare for multi-generational living.

This post focuses on Talking to Your Spouse

It’s vital.

I didn’t answer Dad until after I had talked to Bryan, even though I was pretty sure I knew what the decision would be. It’s a conversation you must have, so don’t skip it.

Here is an outline of sorts for that conversation if you need one:

-Initial thoughts on the idea
-How to make room
-How to make space
-How it’ll affect family life
-Positive aspects
-Negative aspects
-Fears
-Concerns
-Other

Once you’ve had the conversation, honestly assess your situation. Everyone is different, and not everyone can support a parent moving in.

Whatever you decide, make sure both you and your spouse are in agreement. You don’t want this issue to be a source of strife.

If you aren’t able to have your parent move into your home, continue talking with your spouse and brainstorm some other ways to help if possible. Perhaps you can park a motor home for your parent on the property, or build a small home.

Maybe you can help get your parent moved into a sibling’s home (who agrees), and help when possible.

Or look at nursing homes in the area and see if that would be an appropriate solution.

Ensuring that your parents are taken care of is important. We are to honor our parents.

But please remember not to honor your parent at the expense of your spouse. You have left your parent’s home and started a new family. The needs of your new family do come first.

What else needs added to this topic? Were you and your spouse in agreement to become a multi-generational home?