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6 Self-Care Tips for the Sandwich Generation
A Growing Problem
Today, 47% of American adults are, in some way, caring for and supporting both their kids and aging parents (Pew Research Center). Stated another way, that's half of our adult population tending to the unique physical, emotional, and financial needs of two vastly different generations-simultaneously.
Caregivers in this situation are members of what has been termed the Sandwich Generation, and are experiencing a problem that will only grow as time goes on. Baby Boomers continue to reach retirement age at a rate of 8,000 per day (AARP), and in 15 years, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65 years old (census.gov). As the population ages, more people will be called on to help their aging parents or other elderly loved ones.
These people have a difficult challenge in front of them, and if it wasn't already, it becomes truly overwhelming as Mom or Dad's care needs escalate.
Sandwiched Adults Get Pulled in Many Directions
Below is an example of what we often hear from families as we start to work with them: "On the one or two days a week that I have away from [caregiving] responsibilities, I am torn between spending rare alone time with my husband, visiting with my children and grandchildren, visiting with a close friends, catching up at the office or with housekeeping at my own house, or running errands such as grocery shopping for Mom. Some time to myself is much needed but where does that fit among all of the necessities above?"
Six Crucial Tips for Self-Care
How do we make time for ourselves when those we care for require so much? To help answer that, here are six tips for taking care of yourself when you're sandwiched between care needs.