The world has dramatically changed from the ‘good ole days’ when family members lived just down the street. So, how did we in the United States become so detached from intergenerational proximity living? How has distance and separation from family members, specifically of different generations, affected the health and mental development of the modern family? Aside from personal opinions, let’s dive into factual research and expert insights to comprehensively understand its impacts on mental, physical, and societal well-being. Finally, let’s cover how communities and neighborhood real estate developers can contribute to building environments that (a) make it possible to live close to intergenerational family members and (b) provide environments or activities that bring family members together.
Post-World War II, America experienced a dramatic change in family living arrangements, primarily influenced by economic prosperity and government policies. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) played a pivotal role in increasing homeownership by insuring mortgages, leading to a significant rise in suburban living. This was complemented by the G.I. Bill, which offered low-interest home loans to veterans, further encouraging suburban expansion. The creation of suburban communities like Levittown in 1946 marked a new era of residential development, fundamentally altering family dynamics and the societal landscape (Bay Path University). These shifts and the changing job market landscape forever altered intergenerational proximity living.
The Science Of Living Closer
A pivotal aspect of living near family is its impact on mental health, especially among older adults. The “Journal of Gerontology” (2018) highlighted that seniors in close contact with their families, including regular interactions with grandchildren, exhibit significantly lower rates of depression. This is corroborated by a study in “Psychology and Aging,” which found that multigenerational engagement contributes to a sense of purpose and belonging in older adults, enhancing their overall psychological well-being (Psychology and Aging, 2019). For parents, especially those in midlife, the proximity to extended family can alleviate stress and provide emotional support. Research in the “Family Relations” journal shows that parents with familial support nearby report lower anxiety levels and higher satisfaction in parenting (Family Relations, 2020).
The societal implications of intergenerational living extend beyond individual families. According to the “American Sociological Review” (2020), communities with higher rates of multigenerational living tend to exhibit stronger communal bonds and a greater sense of collective responsibility. Economically, families living close to each other can share resources, reducing living costs. A report in “Economic Inquiry” suggests that multigenerational households can lead to significant savings, benefiting all members financially (Economic Inquiry, 2021).
What Can Developers and Communities Do
Community leaders and residential developers can play a tremendous role in reconnecting intergenerational family members. At Eden Development, here is what we have found to be the most impactful in achieving this objective:
Mixed-Use Developments: These areas blend residential, commercial, and community spaces, promoting a vibrant community life where multiple generations can live and interact. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and facilitates family gatherings within walking distance.
Flexible Housing Options: Diverse housing caters to different family structures and life stages. For instance, townhouses or duplexes can allow grandparents to live close to their families while maintaining independence.
Common Spaces: Parks, community gardens, and recreational centers are hubs for family activities and gatherings, encouraging intergenerational interaction and community bonding.
Age-Friendly Design: Infrastructure that considers all ages, like walkable streets, ramps, and ample seating areas, ensures accessibility for the elderly, while playgrounds and sports facilities cater to the younger generation.
Near Schools and Childcare: Proximity to educational and childcare facilities eases the logistics for families, encouraging grandparents to play a more active role in their grandchildren’s daily lives.
Community Programs: Organizing events like cultural festivals, workshops, or sports leagues that appeal to all ages can create shared experiences and strengthen family bonds.
Safety and Security: Well-lit streets, pedestrian-friendly design, and community-oriented policing strategies ensure a safe environment for families to live and interact
Technology Integration: Smart initiatives and community apps can enhance communication and provide platforms for community engagement and family connectivity.
Sustainable Living Spaces: Eco-friendly designs appeal to environmentally conscious families, offering a healthy living environment that is attractive across generations.
These listed items are critical components that Eden Development implements in every neighborhood community we construct! We are committed to creating neighborhoods and communities that reconnect people to family, healthy food, their community, and nature. By constructing nature areas, community orchards, diverse housing options, education centers, community buildings, and walking trails, we are on a mission to create expansive opportunities to unite families.
References & Additional Information Resources:
Journal of Gerontology. (2018). Impact of family proximity on mental health in older adults.
Psychology and Aging. (2019). The role of multigenerational engagement in psychological well-being.
Family Relations. (2020). Parental well-being and the influence of familial support.
American Journal of Health Promotion. (2021). Physical activity in multigenerational households.
Health Affairs. (2022). Health management in older adults and family proximity.
American Sociological Review. (2020). Community impacts of multigenerational living.
Economic Inquiry. (2021). Economic benefits of multigenerational living.
Fisher, H. (2020). The emotional benefits of close family ties. Family Psychology Today.
Williams, M. (2021). Gerontological health benefits of family interaction. Gerontology Research Journal.
