Many adults today are juggling the demands of work, household upkeep, finances and school-aged children, while also caring for an aging parent. This group, known as the sandwich generation, may feel more like a panini — pressed and grilled between the weight of their caregiving duties. According to a recent survey by Home Instead, Inc., 62% of those in the sandwich generation feel they must choose between being a good parent or being a good daughter or son. These pressures are intensified by economic uncertainty and the impact of the pandemic.
“Caregiving can take an emotional, mental and even physical toll on someone, and it can be hard to divide attention and resources to provide the best care to loved ones of different ages,” says Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiving advocate at Home Instead. “While caregivers may feel they have to do it by themselves, it’s best to avoid the superhero mentality and recognize where support is needed.”
Hogan Eichenberger offers five ways to help manage stress and survive the sandwich generation press:
The Brooke County Review, Wellsburg, WV