‘Granny Pods’ Let Your Aging Parents Live Comfortably in Your Backyard

As we grew up, the majority of people seem to forget that our parents also grow older together with us. Then life moves forward, and now we have become the adults who work all the time, take care of our kids, and often don’t remember to call our moms and dads.

For some, this scenario is a nightmare, as they always want to be together with their loved ones. Most people, however, can’t afford to buy another house to live closer to their parents, but a new housing unit, which is gaining popularity, has become a top choice: the granny pods.

What Is a Granny Pod?

A granny pod is a small, separate home that is located in your backyard, built specifically for an elderly family member. These housing units, more commonly referred to as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), are designed specifically for seniors to get a safe and accessible living place that is close to family.

Since you can’t expect the elderly to be able to clean and take care of a full size house, especially if their age and body is really up there, granny pods were made to only include the necessary rooms or amenities. They will typically include a bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and living area in a tight but customizable setting.

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Why Are Granny Pods Gaining Popularity?

Good or Bad Idea? Backyard Granny Pods

There are 2 common reasons why granny pods are becoming a top choice for some individuals. First is the most obvious one, which is that they love their parents and would like to spend as much remaining time that they have together, while ensuring that they still have their own private space to live in.

The 2nd reason is the high cost of living, especially if the parents need some help or an assisted living facility to be able to survive. Along with the desire to keep their grandchildren and other generations of the family close, the high cost is making backyard homes an attractive option.

Features and Customization

Because of how compact it can be, various customizations are very possible to do in almost any granny pod. Assuming you also own the whole backyard, and your state allows you to do whatever you want on it, then you can keep on stacking features for your parents’ safety and comfort.

Some examples are wheelchair ramps if they are having a hard time walking already, grab bars to easily stand up, non-slip flooring to lessen the risk of falling, and emergency alert systems so you can always be aware of how they are doing and monitor their health.

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Considerations Before Installation

Before going ahead and buying a granny pod after reading this, there are a few considerations you should know. First is there are different rules in different states and countries. You have to check your zoning laws and any other rules that might get you in trouble for installing a mini house in your backyard.

Another thing to consider is the upfront cost and investment that will be needed for the installation, because remember, it will be almost like a house that is more compact. So, the kitchen and bathrooms will probably cost you some good money. Estimates for simple and only essential types of granny pods are about $30k to $200k+.

For some, the benefits of having a loved one live closer are invaluable, making this investment a no-brainer. You can always build it yourself, too, if you know how, and make it a family project; that could be more fun.

Granny Pods | Downsizing | Tour My Nana Cottage | Tiny Houses

Author's Final Thoughts

Granny pods provide a practical and emotional solution to living far away from your parents. It is not only a housing unit; for some, it is a chance to spend valuable time that they will never get back. If you have the chance and it is ideal financially, would you let your parents live in a granny pod? Let us know!

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