Betwixt and Between – The Sandwich Generation
A new study by Pew Research Social and Demographic Trends showed some key trends toward what is affectionately called the “sandwich generation.” They’re middle-aged baby boomers who have caregiving or financial responsibilities for their older parents as well as their own children – grown or not. The study showed that 47 percent of adults in their 40s and 50s have a parent over age 65 and a young child or an adult child they are supporting. One in seven middle-aged adults supports both an aging parent and a child. Over 70 percent of adults in their 40s and 50s who have a child over 18 have provided financial help to at least one such child in the past year.
Often, these adults have planned for “empty nesting,” and instead, they end up with extra adults in their household and need to expand rather than downsize. It’s the addition of an extra bedroom or an in-law suite in a home remodeling event. Before deciding to add a suite complete with kitchenette, check the zoning laws. Often they restrict any cooking areas to the main kitchen. Others allow an extra kitchen if it’s for a family member only.
Regardless, your custom remodeling professional can advise you on those regulations and recommend solutions that work for your growing responsibilities. He can suggest ways to maximize the space you have and tell you whether to build out or up for a new bedroom or in-law suite. Let him know your goals and specific needs so that he can give you the best plan – because your best-laid plans are constantly changing.
