The sandwich generation refers to middle-aged adults who are simultaneously responsible for caring for their aging parents and their own children. The term was coined in the 1980s, but the phenomenon has been around for much longer. In fact, it is estimated that about one in four adults in the United States are part of the sandwich generation, according to a Pew Research Center survey. The sandwich generation is a growing phenomenon, as people are living longer and having children later in life. In the United States, an estimated 40 million adults are part of the sandwich generation.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the growth of the sandwich generation. One is the increasing lifespan of Americans. In 1900, the average life expectancy was just 47 years. Today, it is over 78 years. This means that more and more people are living into their 80s and 90s, and they may need more care and support as they age.
Another factor that has contributed to the growth of the sandwich generation is the trend of delaying childbirth. In 1970, the average age of a woman at her first childbirth was 21. Today, it is 26. This means that many people are still raising young children when their parents are starting to need care.
The sandwich generation faces a number of challenges. They may have to juggle work, childcare, and eldercare responsibilities. They may also have to deal with financial constraints, as they may be supporting two or more households. As a result, they may experience stress, anxiety, and burnout.
There are a number of things that sandwich generation members can do to cope with the challenges they face. They can:
- Seek support from family and friends. Talking to people who understand what you are going through can be helpful. There are also a number of support groups and online forums for the sandwich generation.
- Delegate tasks. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your spouse, children, or other family members. You can also hire help, such as a babysitter or a home health aide.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental health is important for your overall well-being.
- Plan for the future. This includes planning for your own retirement as well as the care of your parents. There are a number of resources available to help you plan for the future.
- The sandwich generation is a challenging but rewarding group of people. They are juggling multiple responsibilities, but they are also providing care and support to the people they love. If you are part of the sandwich generation, know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you cope with the challenges you face. Meet with our experienced guardianship attorneys at the Slonim Law Firm.