Visakha

The number of multi-generational households is likely to double over the next few years, according to a recent report published by PulteGroup, a national homebuilding company.

Thanks to a rapidly aging population and a down economy, more and more baby boomer homeowners are seeing their adult children return to the nest, or are faced with the decision of allowing aging parents to reside in the familial abode.

This trend has been gradually gathering momentum over the past few years.

According to a different study by the Pew Research Center, 2008 marked a record year for multi-generational living, with 49 million Americans residing in a household containing two or more adult age groups. About 20 percent of seniors (aged 65 and older) reported staying in a house with multiple generations.

The PulteGroup survey found that a significant number of middle-aged adults are either already living with aging parents, or expect that they will have to do so in the future.

Of those homeowners, 72 percent anticipate having to revamp their current residence, or purchase a new one to accommodate their senior tenants.

According to the survey, the caregiver wish list for home modifications includes a number of different features: more bathrooms, separate living areas (mother-in-law suites) and more expansive family rooms.

Women were more likely than men to place a high value on personal space, with 62 percent saying they desired distinct living areas for aging relatives