Having your boomer parents move into your place might like a practical solution, and in many ways, it probably is.
For instance, maybe they’re downsizing, dealing with health issues, or just looking to save money. However, no matter how much you love them, sharing a home as adults comes with some serious challenges, many of which you might not expect. From clashing lifestyles to generational differences, these are just some of the things you might not have fully considered before welcoming them back into your space.
1. They have very different ideas about personal space.
After years of living on your own, you’re used to your space being exactly that — yours. But for boomer parents, personal space isn’t always a priority. They might walk into your room without knocking, comment on what you’re doing, or assume that just because you’re home, you’re available for conversation. Setting boundaries is key, even if it feels awkward at first. Letting them know when you need alone time or privacy doesn’t mean you don’t love them; it just keeps everyone from stepping on each other’s toes.
2. They have opinions on everything you do.
Living apart gave you the freedom to make your own choices without commentary, but now, every decision seems to come with their input. From how you cook to how you spend your money, boomer parents often feel entitled to weigh in. Even if they mean well, it can feel like you’re 16 again instead of a full-grown adult. Learning to nod, smile, and ignore unsolicited advice is a survival skill. But if something really bothers you, a simple “I appreciate your input, but I’ve got this” can help keep the peace.
3. They often find it hard to adjust to a different household routine.
Your home has its own rhythm — when you wake up, when you cook, how you relax. But when your parents move in, suddenly everything feels off. They might wake up at the crack of dawn, expect tea at a certain time, or assume the TV belongs to them. It takes time for everyone to adjust, but setting expectations early helps. Letting them know how your household works prevents confusion and frustration down the line.
4. They don’t understand modern bills and expenses.
Boomers grew up in a time when things were just… cheaper. They might gasp at your energy bill, question why you’re paying for multiple streaming services, or assume you’re wasting money on things that are pretty standard now. Conversations about rent, grocery costs, or subscriptions can feel like a history lesson on “back in my day” prices. Instead of getting defensive, it can help to show them real numbers. Once they see what things actually cost, they might be less judgmental about your spending habits.
5. Their cleaning habits might not match yours.
Some boomer parents have an old-school approach to cleaning, like using way too much bleach, saving every plastic container, or insisting the dishwasher is useless. Others might be more relaxed about messes than you are, leaving dishes in the sink or ignoring clutter you can’t stand. Figuring out cleaning expectations early on helps avoid resentment. Whether it’s agreeing on chores or just adjusting your standards a little, finding a middle ground makes living together much smoother.
6. They’re overly concerned about your health and diet.
Get ready for comments about how much (or how little) you eat, what you cook, or whether you’re taking vitamins. Boomer parents tend to have strong opinions on food, and they won’t hesitate to tell you if they think you’re eating too much junk or “not getting enough protein.” While it’s mostly coming from a place of care, it can feel intrusive. Saying something like, “I appreciate your concern, but I eat what works for me” can set the boundary while keeping things civil.
7. They might struggle with boredom.
Moving in with you means leaving behind their old routine, and that can lead to restlessness. They might not have the same social life, hobbies, or daily structure they had before, which can make them rely on you more for entertainment. Suddenly, they’re asking what you’re doing every evening or expecting you to watch TV with them. Encouraging them to get involved in activities outside the house — whether it’s a local group, an online hobby, or even just going for walks — can help them find their own rhythm without depending on you for constant company.
8. Their technology struggles can be exhausting.
Every day becomes an IT support session. Whether it’s resetting passwords, explaining how to use an app, or helping them find something on Netflix, you might feel like you’ve become their personal tech assistant. And somehow, the same questions come up over and over. Patience is key, but so is setting limits. Teaching them how to Google things or making a simple “how-to” note for common issues can cut down on constant interruptions.
9. They expect different levels of social interaction.
Source: Pexels Maybe you’re used to coming home and winding down in silence, but your parents might expect daily conversation. Or maybe they’re the type to disappear into their own world, while you’d actually enjoy some social time. Either way, mismatched expectations can lead to tension. Letting them know when you’re in the mood to chat (and when you’re not) can help avoid misunderstandings. Everyone has different social batteries, and that’s okay.
10. They bring up old family dynamics.
Living together again can bring back old parent-child patterns, whether you like it or not. They might start treating you like a teenager, or you might find yourself slipping into old habits of seeking approval. Family history has a way of resurfacing when you’re under the same roof. Recognising when this happens and setting clear boundaries can help keep things in the present. You’re both adults now, and it’s okay to remind them of that.
11. They have opinions about your friends and relationships.
If they don’t like how often your friends come over, or they have thoughts about your partner, you’re going to hear about it. Living together gives them a front-row seat to your personal life, and boomer parents rarely hold back on opinions. It helps to establish early on that your social life isn’t up for debate. A quick “I appreciate your input, but I make my own choices” can shut things down before they get too invasive.
12. They don’t always respect your schedule.
Boomer parents often assume that if you’re home, you’re free. They might start conversations while you’re working, expect you to run errands at random times, or assume your weekend plans include them. Their lack of structure can clash with your carefully planned routine. Letting them know when you need uninterrupted time can help. Whether it’s work hours, gym time, or just a quiet night, making your schedule clear keeps things from getting frustrating.
13. They might struggle to contribute financially.
Depending on the situation, your parents might not be in a position to contribute much to household expenses. Some might assume they don’t need to, especially if they’re from a generation where parents supported their kids, not the other way around. This can create tension if you’re carrying all the financial weight. Having a direct conversation about money — rent, groceries, bills, etc. — can prevent resentment. Even if they can’t contribute financially, finding other ways for them to help around the house can balance things out.
14. You love them, but you also need space.
At the end of the day, you love your parents—but that doesn’t mean living together is easy. Even in the best circumstances, everyone needs breathing room. The challenge is finding a way to coexist without driving each other up the wall. Making time for yourself, keeping communication open, and setting clear boundaries can help you maintain a good relationship while sharing space. Because no matter how much you love each other, sometimes, a little distance is the key to keeping the peace.
