Smart Senior

Vacations are fun but there’s no place like home. If you had the opportunity to spend any, or all, of your vacation with family, you may have some questions. Should you, or would you, consider living with or near other members of your family.
Face it, you probably felt a little uneasy about disturbing everyone else’s routines, but was it really that awful? Think about it. If push came to shove, would you be willing to move in with another family member?
Yes, you want to be independent, and you still can be, but don’t be afraid to admit it if medical issues and the physical disabilities associated with aging are forcing you to consider other options. You wouldn’t be alone; one in five Americans live in a multigenerational home situation. Aren’t you just a little bit curious about how they make it work?
Separate quarters, in the form of accessory apartments, are often the solution. Think of accessory apartments as self-contained units in or near a single-family home. Not necessarily a room upstairs but an apartment in a converted garage, a basement or even a backyard house. This could very well be the perfect arrangement. You can have closeness and mutual support without anyone having to worry about being “under foot” all of the time.
The only difference is that you need to develop a healthy respect for boundaries, but good communication can make it work.
Just because you live in or near someone else doesn’t mean you have to be attached at the hip. You should still pay your own way; share expenses, make your own arrangements in regard to housekeeping, appointments, therapy, and transportation. The only difference is that help is nearby if you should happen to need it.
Before entertaining the idea, be sure to check with your local Division on Aging, and learn about zoning restrictions in your area. Fortunately, laws are changing and easing up as the need for affordable housing options continues to grow.