Caregiving: The “Sandwich Generation”

CAREGIVING STRESS: WHO IS THE SANDWICH GENERATION

The "sandwich generation" refers to a group of adults—typically in their 30s to 50s—who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents while supporting their own children. You  may be "sandwiched" between two generations that depend on you for caregiving tasks such as helping parents with medical issues, housing, or daily tasks while also raising young children or supporting adult children (e.g., with college or living expenses). There likely is an emotional and financial dependence, as well as time constraints which can lead to burnout, anxiety and challenges finding time for yourself or your career.   ​ ​

Caring for aging parents when you have a complicated, strained, or even painful relationship with them is one of the hardest emotional challenges faced by members of the sandwich generation. It forces you to juggle duty, resentment, grief, guilt, and boundaries—all at once.