Pre-engineered steel buildings offer complete floorplan freedom, simple construction, low maintenance, high-energy efficiency, and durable construction. When planning an accessory dwelling unit as an in-law cottage, consider building with metal framing. However, as taking care of themselves becomes increasingly difficult, many see the wisdom in living close to- but not with- their families. They collected a lifetime of memories- and stuff- that they are reluctant to jettison from their lives. Ninety percent of seniors say they prefer to “age in place,” that is to remain where they are for the rest of their lives. Check all local authorities before you proceed with construction plans.Īnother challenge facing children caring for aging parents is disruption. Other areas may have strict guidelines or limitations for what is included- or excluded in an ADU. Local zoning regulations, property title restrictions, or homeowner associations prohibit detached dwellings in some locations. One disadvantage of an ADU is that it is not feasible in everywhere. This too creates discord.īuilding a cozy in-law cottage near family is a great way to maintain independence and privacy for both seniors for the established households of their grown children. Times for rising and retiring may vary greatly between retired seniors and working family members. Conversely, hearing-challenged seniors may crank up the volume on the TV or radio, disturbing other family members. Many elderly people suffer diminished hearing, making it hard for them to follow the constant chatter of a household full of people. The constant comings and goings of a busy household seem chaotic to a senior used to living alone. PRIVACY: A multigenerational household presents difficult adjustments for all concerned. Many seniors find downsizing to a smaller dwelling simplifies household chores, yard care, and home maintenance. Having mom or dad nearby alleviates anxiety and increases convenience.ĭOWNSIZING:The older we get, the more difficult it is too take care of a large home. Whether a pipe busted pipe or a busted hip, guilt and stress follow. Making frantic trips to a parent’s home for every major and minor emergency escalates stress. STRESS-REDUCER: Worrying about an aging parent living alone across town- or worst yet across the country- is stressful for both the parent and their grown children. Or you might consider renting the unit for additional income. When the relative no longer needs the cottage, it converts easily to a backyard office or a guesthouse. By 2030, 72.1 million Americans will be over 65 years old, according to the U.S. ADUs, if thoughtfully and attractively built, increase your property’s resale value.Īs baby boomers age, the need for properties with ADUs will only increase. Money spent on assisted living facilities or nursing homes is lost forever.īuilding a prefab in-law cottage provides a chance to recoup what is spent. LOSS:Nursing home care costs average $5,000 – $7,000 per month. A backyard cottage allows interaction with the family daily. Poor eyesight or health problems may make driving impossible, further isolating the senior. Those who lose a spouse or live far from family become isolated or depressed. Busy families find it hard to spend time with mom or dad. SOCIAL CONTACT:Loneliness plagues many seniors. What Are the Advantages of ADUs?Īccessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) provide a number of benefits over more traditional care facilities: Building a cozy backyard home for an aging family member creates the best of both worlds: providing nearby assistance when necessary- while still allowing privacy and a degree of independence for seniors. In fact, in the last year 34.2 million Americans acted as a caregiver to someone over 50.Īs the elderly’s needs change, so do the demands on the time and resources of the caregiver.Įxpensive assisted living apartments or nursing homes may be financially impossible for many families- or simply considered only as a last resort. Many baby boomers now find themselves caring for their parents or other older relatives. population, many families are opting to build backyard “in-law cottages” as homes for elderly parents. Caregivers Turn to ADUs for Multigenerational HouseholdsĪs senior citizens increasingly dominate the U.S.
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