How to Survive Moving Back Home with Parents at Age 50

As a result of divorce, the death of a spouse, loss of a job, or other economic circumstance, many adults now are finding themselves in the position of moving back in with their parents during middle age. If you need to move back home with mom and dad after age 50, the transition can be made easier for all. Here's how to survive the move back home.

Instructions

1. Ask your parents beforehand what they expect from you. Do not let your parents put undue financial or emotional stress on themselves. It is your responsibility to get back on your feet and be independent again as quickly as possible.

2. Develop a clear plan of how much you will contribute to the household finances before moving back home. If you can’t pay your parents rent at first, ask what utility bills you can pay for them.

3. Get your own telephone line installed. That way, your parents need not be inconvenienced by calls for you. You also can be responsible for paying your own phone bills.

4. Make sure that everyone (including you) understands that this is a temporary arrangement only. Set a tentative date for when you will be moving out. It will help if you clarify whether you will be living home for a few weeks, months or a year.

5. Allow your parents to set some ground rules. It may seem ridiculous at your age, but everyone needs to know what to expect. Be considerate of the daily routines of the others in the household. Think seriously about how this living arrangement may change your parents' lifestyle.

6. Respect each other as individuals. Often adult relatives have a difficult time living together. It helps if you try to stay out of each other's personal business.

Tips & Warnings

• Experts recommend evaluating your relationship with your mother before moving back home. Studies show that getting along with mom is even more important than getting along with dad if you live under the same roof.