The sandwich generation: what is it?

What do you know about the “sandwich generation”? This concept is becoming increasingly common, affecting a large proportion of the adult population.

The sandwich generation refers to people who have to look after their children at the same time as caring for aging or frail parents. This situation brings with it many challenges related to family, work, mental health and finances.

Here’s an overview of this reality, as well as solutions that can help caregivers better cope with these responsibilities.

Sandwich generation: what is it?

The sandwich generation refers to adults who have to juggle :

• Parental responsibilities towards their children ;
• The role of caregiver to an elderly or sick relative.

The typical profile of the sandwich generation often looks like this:

• People aged between 30 and 50;
• Active worker with several professional responsibilities;
• Parent involved in family life ;
• Caregiver for a relative in need of support or care.

The main challenges facing the sandwich generation

Although this role is often taken on out of love, it can quickly become demanding and exhausting. People living this reality are constantly juggling many personal, family and professional responsibilities.

Here are the main challenges associated with the sandwich generation.

1. Schedule management

Between work, family responsibilities, daily chores and caring for an elderly relative, time is often in short supply.

It is therefore essential to :

• Setting priorities ;
• Structuring your schedule ;
• Accept that not everything can be perfect at the same time.

Compromises may sometimes be necessary to preserve a better balance.

1. Stress management

The mental burden of being a caregiver can lead to stress, fatigue and sometimes even exhaustion.

To continue to help a loved one effectively, it is important to :

• Taking time for yourself;
• Respect your limits;
• Find time to rest and recuperate;
• Maintain stress-reducing activities.

Taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

1. Work-life balance

The sandwich generation often has to reconcile career, family life and caring responsibilities.

Good communication with the employer can help find certain solutions:

• Teleworking ;
• Flexible schedule ;
• Temporary reduction in working hours ;
• Adjustment of professional responsibilities.

Companies also have an important role to play in supporting employees who are caregivers.

1. Personal balance

Wanting to be there for everyone at the same time can quickly become a heavy burden.

Seeking to be :

• A good parent;
• A spouse present ;
• A high-performance employee;
• A child who cares for his aging parents ;

… requires a lot of energy and often involves certain sacrifices.

It is therefore important to learn how to :

• Setting limits ;
• Identify your priorities ;
• Accept that you can’t control everything.

Striking a realistic balance remains essential to your well-being.

1. Financial challenges

The sandwich generation also faces significant financial pressures.

Frequent expenses include

• Mortgage or rent ;
• Car payments ;
• Children’s expenses ;
• Care and services for an elderly parent ;
• Costs related to a seniors’ residence or home care.

This reality can become particularly difficult when the role of caregiver reduces the time available for work.

Fortunately, a number of government programs and financial support measures exist to help caregivers and seniors.

Resources to help caregivers

To support an elderly loved one, it’s important not to be left alone.

Here are some solutions to help caregivers:

• Sharing responsibilities with family members ;
• Talking about difficulties experienced with people you trust ;
• Participate in support groups ;
• Considering home help;
• Explore the option of a private seniors’ residence adapted to your loved one’s needs.

Having the right support can often help you get through this demanding period.

Are you looking for a suitable living environment for an elderly loved one? Are you looking for solutions to the challenges of the sandwich generation?

Visavie’s housing advisors can help you find the best resources for your situation with a personalized, no-charge service.

Contact us today to find a solution tailored to your needs.

 

Looking for a retirement home in Ontario and want to understand the financial aid you’re entitled to? Our Visavie Senior Living Advisors help you find the right residence for your needs and budget at no charge and help you maximize your tax credits. Service available 7 days a week across Ontario.