The rise in multigenerational households is heavily influenced by economics, with many young adults, known as “boomerang kids,’’ moving back home because of limited job prospects.
But extended life spans and increased options in home health and outpatient care over nursing homes have also played a role. So, too, has a recent wave of immigration of Hispanics and Asians, who are more likely to live with extended family.
“With the reality of 78 million baby boomers coming into an aging demographic, we need more housing choices for caregiving,’’ said Elinor Ginzler, AARP’s senior vice president for livable communities. “It can be a great opportunity for connectedness across generations, but also an opportunity for conflict if family members don’t keep communications lines open.’’
An AARP analysis of census data shows that Hawaii had the highest share of multigenerational households, followed by California and Mississippi, partly because of a scarcity of affordable housing. North Dakota was the least likely to have several generations living together.
Other findings from the Pew and AARP studies:
■The most common multigenerational family is an older parent who owns the house living with an adult child and grandchild.
■Older women are more likely than older men to live in a multigenerational household.
■As multigenerational families are increasing, the number of adults 65 or older who live alone is edging lower, from a peak of 28.8 percent in 1990 to 27.4 percent in 2008.
According to the Pew report, in 1900 about 57 percent of people age 65 or older lived with extended family.
After World War II, Social Security, Medicare, and medical breakthroughs prompted healthier, more financially secure older adults to live on their own.
Now, the share of older adults in multigenerational homes is about 20 percent.
