Millions young adults are living with the parents again in the wake of COVID-19, according to Pew Center research. In July, 52 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds reported at home again (up from 46 percent in February). That’s a new record. The second highest percent was recorded during the Great Depression. Does it represent a new multigenerational living trend?
Among those who moved due to the pandemic, 23 percent said it was because their college campus had closed; 18 percent said job loss was to blame. Despite the unwelcome reasons prompting such moves, there may be an upside.
“In a world that tells us there’s intrinsic shame in staying at home longer, it’s worth talking about the ways our lives can be richer for it,” wrote Zara McDonald in a recent article. She highlighted why her relationship with her parents got stronger after living at home again.
McDonald said it’s important to begin this new stage in the relationship by having all parties express their current needs – from financial and practical requirements to social and privacy requests – which are likely different than in years past. With little time and effort, the parent-child dynamic can evolve from caretaker and dependent to a relationship of mature appreciation and respect.
Multigenerational living trend photo by Andrea Piacquadio, courtesy of Pexels.com
Read more tips about making the best of things while working and schooling from home during these challenging times.