Summer is a busy time of year for many families. Vacations and disrupted schedules can make juggling responsibilities tough for even the most organized person. As summer winds down, though, families prepare to send their kids back to school. This exciting time is often fraught for members of the “sandwich generation.” Keep reading to find out if you’re a member of the sandwich generation and how you can find relief.
What is the Sandwich Generation?
The sandwich generation consists of middle-aged adults who are “sandwiched” between aging parents and kids. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of adults in their 40s and 50s have a parent aged 65 or older and are either raising a young child or financially supporting a grown child. Fifteen percent of middle-aged adults are providing financial support to both an aging parent and a child.*
Stuck in the Middle
It can be tough to be a member of the sandwich generation. Ensuring that aging loved ones get the care they need while managing the many demands of parenthood can feel isolating and stressful, especially during the back-to-school season. But there’s good news: you’re not alone.
Respite Care Can Help
Respite care, short-term relief for primary caregivers, can be a lifesaver. If you’re a member of the sandwich generation, respite care can give you the space you need to balance your responsibilities. You can feel confident knowing that your loved one is getting the care he or she needs while you ensure your children have what they need to start the school year out strong.
Trio Healthcare facilities offer 24/7 respite care services where nursing staff provide the medical care that your loved one requires and provides opportunities for socialization during his or her stay. For more information on respite services, contact a location near you.
* https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2013/01/30/the-sandwich-generation/