subject: Living in a Home with Extended Family [print this page] We all imagine we are going to live with our child, but do you also stay with your parents? In spite of the fact that this scenario seems to be more usual in old movies, it is in fact becoming more and more usual nowadays, than it was a few years ago. Of course there are going to be positive points to this, but you will also find that there are many negatives points to living like this. Continue to read this feature if you would like to find out what benefits there are, or indeed what are the downsides. If moving back home to be with extended family is something you are looking to do soon, hopefully this article can give you an insight into what to expect.
Positive things to consider.
-it could make more economic sense. Not necessarily though, as occasionally the home is so big that every generation has their own separate floor and only meet in the living room and kitchen.
-you are residing with your whole family close to you. Often a really positive family atmosphere and close relations could be developed.
-if the younger adult needs to go somewhere at short notice and has no idea who could look after the kids, in a multiple generation home, someone is always there to take care of them (no babysitter is needed). Also, parents and grandparents can give great advice with regard to bringing up children.
-the older generations may have health matters, consequently the younger members of the home can support them to living independently as much as possible. Helping each other is the big benefit of living together, just think coming home from a long day at work and someone has prepared a meal for you.
-older generations often have feelings of isolation. We all need a shoulder to lean on at points in our life, living with extended family can help assuage that loneliness of becoming older.
So what are the not so good things to think about?
-some of you might feel like they have no real personal space, like they are never really alone.
-parents and grandparents may feel that you are intruding in their lives, or you may feel that they are intruding in yours all the time.
-how you bring up your child could also cause problems, with other family members ignoring what you want for the child.
-think about your partner, how are they going to deal with being in such close proximity to your family, they may even feel that you are comparing them.
-the generation gap could cause problems, each generation has their own way of completing things and ideas on how things should be done. Not all homes can accommodate more generations, however, there are some areas which are perfect place for this lifestyle, one example is Forest Hill houses
Rules need to be set up before entering into this kind of situation, there are many other issues to think about that I haven't covered, as a family it's up to you how you deal with it. Don't try and brush things under the carpet, be open with what you want and don't be afraid to voice your thoughts. Do not put yourself in the situation just because someone else asks you too, if it isn't the life you want then nothing is going to change your point of view. When all said and done, if you are depressed then other members of the household are going to feel that, which makes for a very strained home and relationships could break down.
