The “Sandwich Generation”
The “Sandwich Generation” refers to the group of people, usually in their 40s and 50s, who are responsible for caring for their elderly parents and their own young children. They are facing struggles that affect not just their own lives and well-being, but also the economy as a whole.
May 13, 2024
What is the “Sandwich Generation”?
The “Sandwich Generation” does not refer to the generation that loves sandwiches. It refers to the group of people, usually in their 40s and 50s, who are responsible for caring for their elderly parents and their own young children. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2022 about 23% of U.S. adults are in this group, sandwiched between the older and younger generations. These multigenerational caregivers are facing struggles that affect not just their own lives and well-being, but also the economy as a whole.
What are the struggles of this generation?
Financial difficulties
The Sandwich Generation may need to provide financial assistance to their aging parents while still financially supporting their children under 18. They are twice as likely to be struggling financially (36% vs 17%) compared with adults who only care for their own parents. More of them have to leave the workforce because of the added pressure of being caregivers to their parents and young children (72% are employed vs 78% employed parents not caring for an elderly parent). In addition to this, they still have the added stress of saving for their own retirement as they see the financial struggles of their own parents.
Less Sleep and More Stress
Studies show that these multigenerational caregivers are getting less sleep (at least a half hour less) and often develop chronic stress which can lead to other health issues. The great demands of caring for an elderly parent and young children at the same time can take a toll on their physical well-being.
Balancing Mental Health
The Sandwich Generation may struggle with family discord as they grapple with making decisions with which other family members do not agree. A common cause of family rift is when adult children have different ideas on how to care for their parents. These multigenerational caregivers may also feel guilty about not having enough time to care for their own parents and their young children at the same time. They may feel anger and resentment about being in this tough situation. These are all normal and valid feelings for someone in such a demanding predicament.
How can we alleviate these struggles?
Reduce financial difficulties
It is important to discuss finances with parents, children, and siblings. First of all, understand the resources available to support the elderly parent. They may have personal savings, pension, and/or retirement funds. Look into any government support that they are qualified to get. Have a conversation with siblings and other family members about assisting with financial support to care for the elderly parent. For children who are old enough to understand, talk to them about financial responsibility and the value of money.
Seek help
People in the Sandwich Generation may not always seek the help that they need. Again, it is crucial to speak with siblings and other family members about sharing the load of caregiving. If finances allow, they may also seek to pay for respite care to alleviate the burden of being the primary caregiver.
Joining a support group or seeking help from a counselor are other options to take. Leverage the support from friends and neighbors who are willing to lend a hand. It is not a sign of weakness to accept help from others. If anything, we are stronger when we help one another.
Manage Stress
There are many ways to manage stress including exercising, writing in a journal, taking a stroll, engaging in a hobby. One might ask: when would I have time to do that? This is why it’s important to invest some time to get (and stay) organized, as well as to seek help, as mentioned above. It is almost impossible to care for multiple people when one self is not well enough, so caring for yourself should be a priority.
The Sandwich Generation faces many challenges as they care for both their aging parents and young children. As the human life expectancy increases and young adults struggle to leave the nest, the percentage of people falling in this generation will get larger. It is therefore critical to understand their struggles and how to mitigate them.
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