Quick Links: All About the Sandwich Generation
What is the Sandwich Generation?
The sandwich generation refers to middle-aged individuals who support both aging parents and growing children. This generation derives its name from being “sandwiched” between the obligation to care for their aging parents while still supporting their own children. Both the aging parents and children may require financial, physical, and emotional support, meaning a great deal of stress can be put on those in the sandwich generation.
This demographic has increased in size in recent years as average lifespans have improved, and having children at an older age has become more common. A Pew Research Center Study estimates that about one in seven Americans between the ages of 40 and 60 provide financial support to both a child and a parent. In addition to an increasingly larger generation, more adult children are returning home to live, increasing the strain on sandwich generation parents even more. Many find themselves putting off retirement to keep up with all the financial demands in their lives.
How Can the Sandwich Generation Manage Stress?
Studies show that people in the sandwich generation lose at least a half-hour of sleep per night and often have a higher risk of developing chronic stress. While this generation is understandably under incredible pressure, there are some steps they can take to make their life easier. Below, we will break down some of these steps and how they can be applied to your own life if you find yourself “sandwiched” financially.
Discuss Finances With All Parties Involved
Being open about your finances with your parents and adult children might be one of the best things you can do as a member of the sandwich generation. If you are fortunate, your senior parents might have a pension or nest egg that can help offset some of the financial strain you are experiencing. If this isn’t the case in your situation, you can reach out to The Aging Life Care Association or other similar nonprofits for guidance and support.
Help Adult Children Achieve Independence
Trying to help adult children transition into an independent lifestyle can be challenging. While there are many ways to encourage this, setting the correct expectations with them as soon as possible is the easiest. This would mean informing them that if they stay home, they should expect to pay near-market rates for rent. This removes the “family discount” veil and gives them a good idea of real-life expenses as they ease into complete financial independence.
Find Your Aging Parents a Quality Home
One of the most significant worries facing the sandwich generation is where their aging parents will live once they can no longer live alone. Only some have the space or the time to provide care for their parents in their homes. Fortunately, life plan communities like Seafields can give your parents the luxury and ease of living they deserve. In our independent living communities, residents have access to world-class amenities, an engaging social calendar, and unparalleled living assistance—so you’ll never need to worry that your loved ones aren’t receiving the care they need.
If independent living seems like something you might be interested in for your parents, click here to learn about the benefits these communities offer.
Delegate Tasks to Others
Some members of the sandwich generation find themselves carrying the load themselves. Reaching out to siblings or other family members for support may be a good way to help take some of the load off of your shoulders. There are instances where certain family members aren’t aware of the severity of specific health and financial issues facing their family. Maintaining open communication with those in your life who are available for support can help you feel less alone.
Support Groups and Counselors
Finding a support group is an excellent way to find like-minded people going through similar struggles. In these groups, you can learn some strategies that have worked for others and even share some of your own. Having a community to rally around when things get tough can help you mentally and physically.
Counseling is another quality option when feeling overwhelmed by your emotional and financial worries. Working with a professional can help you organize your thoughts, realize priorities, and create an action plan for the future.
Find Your Parents a Community at Seafields
Seafields, Kiawah Island’s first and only Life Plan Community, preserves independence with a gentle touch. Our professional caregivers help with daily tasks and adapt to our residents’ unique needs, ensuring your loved ones receive only the best independent living care. Reach out to us below to learn more about our wonderful community!
