Sandwiched between caring for aging parents and caring for their own children, nearly half of adults in their 40’s and 50’s are part of the so-called “Sandwich” Generation. These individuals are happy with their lives, overall, but they are often very busy and under constant stress. It’s important that these family caregivers recognize their risk and take steps to protect their own health from the effects of chronic stress or exhaustion.
Who is the Sandwich Generation?
Twelve percent of parents are part of the sandwich generation. They spend an average of 2-3 hours per day in caregiving activities — around 1350 hours annually. They are helping parents, in-laws and children with needs such as:
- Transportation
Caregiver La Crescenta, CA: The Sandwich Generation
- Meal planning
- Housekeeping
- Health care
- Personal care
Most members of the sandwich generation also provide financial support and significant emotional support to both their aging parents and their children (including children younger than 18, and those who are fully grown). At the same time, most are still working — although many have made sacrifices to their careers to meet their caregiving responsibilities. Many are feeling the strain to their marriages or romantic relationships as well.
Despite all this, many of these sandwich caregivers feel that being able to help their parents in this way has strengthened their relationships. It’s meaningful and honorable work.
Protecting Caregiver Health for the Long Run
The toll of constant stress affects physical, emotional and mental health consequences. Worrying about health, and other concerns inherent in caregiving, leads to a state of chronic stress. Chronic stress contributes to a number of negative health effects, including:
- Interrupted sleep
- Headaches and other pain
- High blood pressure
- Changes in eating patterns
- Troubles with digestion
- Frequent illness
- Anxiety
- Depression
Prolonged stress can also increase the likelihood of using unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating, drinking or smoking. Experts caution that in order to manage chronic stress successfully over the long term, it’s important to be realistic about caregiver demands, and to make a plan for success. One of the most important steps is to reach out and ask for help.
Home Care Services can Help
Home care services are uniquely suited to help out the sandwich generation. They can assist seniors in their own home with tasks such as:
- Transportation
- Light housework
- Meal preparation
- Shopping or errand support
- Personal care
- Companionship
Home care is completely customizable, based on the individual needs and preferences of each family. By arranging for a home care aide to come to the senior’s home and keep up the laundry and housework, for example, the family caregiver can conserve valuable time and energy. Or, a home care aide can help the senior with bathing, or take them out for a drive, freeing up the family caregiver to take care of other responsibilities — or maybe just take an afternoon off.
Make a Plan and Take Control
The simple act of taking control — and therefore feeling more in control of one’s own life — can reduce stress and enhance mental wellbeing. Setting up a plan before the situation becomes dire can keep it from ever getting there. Home care services can help keep the balance, keep stress manageable, keep the caregiver healthy and keep the work rewarding. Calling the agency to find out more can be the first step to taking control, making a plan and ensuring long-term caregiver success.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering a Caregiver in La Crescenta, CA please contact the caring staff at Nu Care Inc. today at. 800-505-6890
Sources
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/11/parenting/sandwich-generation-costs.html
https://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2013/01/30/the-sandwich-generation/
https://www.nwpc.com/health-care-and-the-sandwich-generation-infographic/
https://www.greatcall.com/resources/caregivers/what-is-the-sandwich-generation