Multigenerational Housing on the Rise, Fueled by Economic and Social Changes

The number of Americans living with multiple generations under one roof has been growing for nearly four decades, driven by a mix of economic, social, and demographic changes which will have implications on future housing needs for older adults and their families. This publication provides an overview of research showing a rise in multigenerational households and highlights housing models that can address this trend. Case Study: Grandfamilies Place, a property for grandparents raising their grandchildren in Phoenix, Arizona.

This Spotlight is part of the Future of Housing Initiative:

The home is central to individual and community well-being and should support our lives today and into the future. In our work to address housing for older adults and their families, AARP and AARP Foundation created the Future of Housing Initiative with a focus on today and tomorrow. The majority of Americans want to live independently in their homes as they age. Therefore thinking about future needs today is of paramount importance.

When it comes to future needs our nation’s housing is severely deficient. By 2030, one in every five Americans will be over age 65, and our nation will face a severe shortage in accessible and affordable housing to meet their needs.

Through the Future of Housing Initiative, we are developing strategies to address the senior housing crisis and make all of our communities affordable and welcoming for people regardless of age, background, circumstance, or physical ability. Learn more by visiting: https://futureofhousing.aarp.org/