Challenges Surrounding the Sandwich Generation

Being a part of the “Sandwich Generation” can be extremely challenging. These are family members who are “sandwiched” between their elderly parents and their young adult children. Typically, it accounts for people in their 40s or 50s.

In recent years, the traditional “Sandwich Generation” has expanded the “menu.” Now, there’s the “Club Sandwich Generation” which are older adults in their 50s and 60s who are wedged between their older parents, their adult children who are in their 30’s and 40’s and then their grandchildren. There’s also the “Open Faced Sandwich Generation” which is anyone who is non-professionally involved in elderly care, which is estimated to be 25% of us at some point in life.

All three of these terms encompass hard challenges. Statistics show that the financial burdens that come along with being a part of these generations are rising. A survey (conducted in 2012) found that 48% of adults between 40 and 59 have provided some type of financial support to at least one grown child in the past year. In comparison, 21% have provided financial support to a parent age 65 or older in the past year. The crossover between the two can cause troubling financial issues.

Besides the financial issues, the stress of being a part of the Sandwich Generation can lead to burnout, depression, isolation and guilt. Those who are a part of the Sandwich Generation might struggle with balancing other relationships, their families, their job and time for themselves.

The survey also found that among all adults with at least one parent age 65 or older, 30% say their parent or parents need assistance handling their affairs or care for themselves. This can be a huge task when also caring for children.

As time passes, new generations are becoming a part of the sandwich generation. According to a more recent survey, the Sandwich Generation has become younger, more female and more diverse, in recent years. Forty percent of millennials were more likely to be caring for an aging parent during Covid-19 than before the pandemic, compared to 34% of Gen Xers and 13% of baby boomers.

These new generations are facing hard challenges, especially within the last year and a half. Those who find themselves in this difficult position can rely on resources that are made available through assisted living centers and other care services.

Avalon Memory Care is dedicated to helping take some of the stress off of your plate. To learn more about Avalon Memory Care or schedule a visit call (972) 713-1383 or (888) 522-1918.

Sources:

https://www.seniorliving.org/caregiving/sandwich-generation/

https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2013/01/30/the-sandwich-generation/

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/11/27/how-the-pandemic-is-slamming-the-sandwich-generation.html

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