For the first time in history, there are more people over the age of 65 than people under the age of five. With this new trend in aging, a growing number of adults find themselves between caring for their aging parents and their own children. This group is commonly referred to as the “sandwich generation.” These adults play a balancing act of giving care to two generations at once, with limited time and money to do so.
The sandwich generation typically includes adults in their 40’s and 50’s who are raising young children and supporting their aging parents. Research from American Geriatrics Society in 2022 found that one out of four caregivers for older adults are also providing care for young children. Additionally, 15% of adults are providing financial support to their adult parents and their children.
Life in the sandwich generation is often about competing commitments and limited time. Many caregivers provide not only financial and physical support, but emotional support as well. Pew Research Center found 38% of caregivers in the sandwich generation report that both their children and parents rely on them emotionally. This causes an emotional burden to caregivers on top of already heavy responsibilities. Time pressure is also a major concern. About 31% of sandwich generation caregivers say they always feel rushed.
The strain from these competing tasks can cause “role overload.” A U.K. study found that these caregivers spend an average of 77 hours per month caring for older adults, in addition to child rearing. 70% of those caregivers are also employed. This overload can have major effects on physical and mental health for caregivers.
Constantly shifting between roles often leaves individuals with little time for self-care. Many caregivers report feeling chronic stress trying to manage all the responsibilities. This can then lead to feelings of guilt and emotional exhaustion. Dr. Francesca Falzarano, an assistant professor at the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California, said the added responsibilities of caring for many people limits the amount of time a caregiver has for socialization. This, in turn, shirks their support system when caregivers need one most. Additionally, many studies suggest a higher rate of depression and anxiety in caregivers in the sandwich generation. Over time, this stress, emotional exhaustion, and the physical toll caregiving takes on a person leads to burnout.
It is important that all caregivers, but especially those in the sandwich generation, make time for themselves. This might mean cutting back on how much you try to do for others, especially outside of your caregiving tasks. It might be time to look into respite care options for aging parents or adult children with disabilities, or limiting children’s activities. If that is not an option, see if responsibilities can be better divided so it does not all fall on one person. Outsourcing tasks that you can will free you up to care for the responsibilities that only you can do. The most important thing is to find time to decompress, even if it is just for a few minutes every day. Taking time for yourself is essential to avoid burnout.
You don’t have to do it alone. JABA can provide information, resources, and services for you and your loved one so you can all get the support and care you need. From respite care to support groups, JABA is here to support you on your caregiving journey.
Despite the stress, many sandwich generation caregivers report a high level of satisfaction with family life. Pew Research Center found they are more likely than other adults to feel satisfied with family relationships. Caregiving often creates stronger family bonds and a sense of purpose. Many caregivers believe that even though it is demanding, caregiving is deeply meaningful. Still, balancing these positives with the challenges of everyday life requires effort and support.
The sandwich generation represents a growing group in society navigating complex and overlapping responsibilities. As life expectancy increases and people delay parenthood, more adults will likely find themselves sandwiched between generations. Recognizing the vital role these caregivers play is the first step towards ensuring they are supported, valued, and able to continue providing care.
Ty Mynes is a Communications Specialist and writer at JABA.
