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February 5, 2026
Aging in place continues to increase in popularity. However, what to do when you notice an older loved one having trouble living safely at home is an issue many families eventually face.
When visiting your aging parent or relative, you may notice they have lost weight, seem disoriented or lonely, or are exhibiting depressive behaviors. When these signs reveal themselves to you, it may be time for you to consider having your parent or older relative move in with you or to a senior living community where the situation is safer. Check your loved one’s home for the following:
A shift began in the living trends of a century ago when most seniors lived with their adult children in a multigenerational house. This so-called “reverse boomerang” effect appears to be on the uptick once again.
According to Pew Research Center data, 15 percent of 25- to 34-year-olds who headed a household in 2021 had a parent or other older family member living with them. Pew also reports that older parents moving in with their adult children is contributing to the long-term rise in shared living.
If you’re thinking about moving your loved one into your home, there are several things to consider before making a move.
You may be able to create an in-law apartment with a separate entrance or invest in a backyard cottage. If not, what modifications can you make to create a safer environment?
Having a parent live with you should not mean you are always at their service. Many well-meaning adult children make this mistake. In the beginning, a parent is usually fairly self-sufficient. Still, in time they will require more, and if you don’t begin your living experiment with outside help, you will fall into a trap where your time is no longer your own.
Share tasks with other family members and have them do their part. Find local senior support services and check out professional in-home care to ensure your loved one becomes accustomed to others providing help to them.
Living in a family multigenerational home isn’t for everyone. Your parent might prefer shared living with other senior adults, like a roommate experience. Or perhaps a retirement community with defined living stages, transitioning from independent to assisted and full-time care, as necessary.
Many families find living together can save money but not necessarily their sanity. They look for alternative living arrangements for their parents so that everyone has their own space. Talk it out as a family; even if the conversation is difficult to have, it’s better than responding to a catastrophic fall or illness, forcing a decision to find housing for your parent.
Determine how your aging loved one feels about the next step when they can no longer live alone; their thoughts may surprise you. It can help to speak with an elder law attorney to address issues that invariably present themselves. You might consider the following:
Goodwill goes a long way to a successful living arrangement, but so does preparedness. Having a preset structure to address issues will allow you to focus on enjoying your time with your loved one.
At Chubb Law Firm PC we help families work through the maze of aging issues that affect seniors who may be experiencing declining health. If you are faced with making a decision about your loved one’s living arrangements at your home, in assisted living, or a nursing home facility, Chubb Law Firm PC is here to help you create a plan. Call (916) 241-9661 to schedule a Discovery Meeting.
For additional reading on this topic, check out the following articles:
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