Bea Lewis

Food and fuel costs are up; the stock market is down. Retirees and those on fixed incomes are cutting everyday expenses to keep up with the economic downturn.

So what happens when an adult child experiences his or her own financial crisis and wants to move back home?

First off, check out all other living options before you make a commitment. If moving home is the answer, a few tips can help make things a bit more comfortable.

• Keep in mind that when grown offspring return to the roost, especially if they've lived elsewhere for a time, you should expect some increased household expenses and heightened tensions.
• Have periodic family discussions as to how the living-at-home situation is going. Members can express gripes, but feelings should be shared in a calm, businesslike manner. Mutual respect goes a long way toward getting along. Talking about family and household responsibilities is not easy, but not talking can create misunderstandings and conflicts.
• Have a "move out'' game plan for your adult child. Make it clear he'll live with you until he finds a job, for example, or can find affordable housing. Aim for a time limit, even if it means he has to bunk with a friend for a while.
• # Be aware that even one extra person in the house can increase monthly expenses such as electric and hot water charges. Ask your son or daughter to avoid long showers and get into the habit of turning off lights when not in the room, etc. Discuss what amount he or she can contribute to additional expenses.
• Share household tasks, but if things are not being done to your liking (stacking the dishwasher or leaving dishes in the sink, for example) decide what's important to you and let go of other things.
• Have clear-cut rules if your offspring keeps the stereo blasting just as you're nodding off.
• Your grown child should be responsible for his or her meals and can be expected to clean up the kitchen after it's used. Decide in advance who does the food shopping and who pays for what and when. (It's no longer just a mom's job.)

As long as everyone adheres to a game plan, having a son or daughter back home for a limited amount of time can be a pleasurable way to get to know them as adults.

Original Article in the Palm Beach Post Living