Money. Loss of a job or unexpected expenses, like divorce or death in the family. A big move, where one family unit lives with another family unit or member who is already in the area until they can become familiar with the area and establish their own home. A desire to live in an area with high costs. By having more family members live in a single house, the family can afford a nicer, larger house in a better neighborhood and with better schools. Working parents who prefer to have their own family members care for their children instead of strangers. Elderly relatives who need to be looked after by family instead of home care services. An emphasis on preserving religious beliefs and customs. Unexpected circumstances, such as a debilitating injury, heart problems, or an incurable disease. An extended family living situation can provide a helpful cushion if and when such circumstances arise.
Does anyone in the family have health issues that need to be addressed, such as an elderly parent needing special care, or a child with learning disabilities? If their care is home based, which of the other family members are primarily responsible for this care?
Address your concerns about privacy. It can be hard to have privacy in this living situation. Make sure everyone understands the importance of privacy, and have consequences for anyone who invades anyone’s privacy in any way, whether it’s the Internet, your diary, going through personal belongings, and even listening in on phone calls. Part of maintaining boundaries is each member of the family knowing that giving advice, especially when it comes to problems or arguments by a married couple within the house, should only be given “if asked for. " Never get into the middle of a couple’s argument unless it’s a case of abuse. Set physical boundaries. Some people have more “physical” personalities than others. Let your family know about your concerns about physical violence and/or inappropriate touching. Set acoustic boundaries. It’s likely that at least one person in the house will enjoy hearing loud music or even television. Tell those who want loud music or television to use headphones. Set bathroom rules. Some people are more accepting about using the bathroom at the same time than others. Have locks on the bathroom doors to prevent accidental interruptions and embarrassments. Make sure that you don’t only set your boundaries, but respect the others’ boundaries as well.
Have one day and/or night a week of fun for everyone. Bond over a game night, a trip to the movie theater, or even just sit down and converse with each other.
