Moving in with parents becomes more common for the middle-aged

[MADem]

9. Not just the middle aged, but the 'just out of college' too.

And sometimes, parents move in with children.

It's not all bad, though, particularly if it's a voluntary arrangement. Young people can save money to get a start, instead of pissing it away on renting a substandard apartment in a renters' market. Older people don't have to worry about the "I've fallen and I can't get up" drill if they have an adult child nearby to lend a hand. The more 'earners' in the house, the higher the standard of living for all--'luxuries' that might be out of reach for two adults become entirely possible if you've got four or more incomes contributing to the household expenses.

If it's an involuntary arrangement, it can suck, I'm sure. Also, if the home is run in a "top down" fashion (MY house, MY rules) that can suck, too.

In cultures other than USA, this communal living is a common practice, and it is considered a good thing for multi-generational families to all live under one roof. People who live alone or away from elders are sometimes pitied because the perception is that they have no one who cares about them!

It truly can be a good thing, if everyone participating has a cooperative nature.