Introduction
The “sandwich generation” refers to middle-aged individuals, usually 30s to 50s who are “sandwiched” or pressured to support both aging parents and growing children, be it financially, physically, or emotionally. Some adults become sandwich generation caregivers for many years, while others experience it only for a few periods. The burdens of costs, helping with daily activities, overseeing supervision, legal considerations, and other concerns cause financial and emotional stress. Moreover, managing one's own personal and professional challenges, as well as the need to save for one's own retirement, adds to the pressure.
Prepare For Sandwich Generation May 2
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In some countries, sandwich generation may have more meanings. Usually, this scenario happens for low or middle-income families: When you are the eldest, your parents will support your studies so you can get a job and help your family. So you can pay for your younger siblings’ tuition. So you can pay the monthly bills. The harsh reality is that these things are not optional, they are demanded from you.
Do you agree that wealth isn't the only thing that can be passed down to the next generations, poverty too?
To eradicate this, one must understand that starting a family takes extensive planning and preparation, as the responsibilities will drastically increase. Planning for our own retirement as early as possible is also a must. If you plan to have kids, know that they will soon be a sandwich generation member, and no one should experience that severe emotional and financial stress.
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” — Benjamin Franklin. Share your thoughts about this statement.
Saving for medical bills and anticipated long-term care costs is part of a comprehensive retirement plan. People with more assets are more relaxed about retirement, while those on limited budgets are more stressed. You won't have to rely on your family to meet the gaps and be concerned about being a burden to anyone if you know your expenses are covered.
How common is it for people to work past retirement age where you live? What are some of the goals you'd like to achieve before you retire?
Interestingly, according to Pew Research, Americans are more likely to financially support an adult child than they are to support their elderly parent. Meaning, their grown child is part of the burden too. As a solution, they have to encourage the grown children to move towards independence, get started in the world with job tips or career advice.
How do you guide your adult children? What do you think are the most valuable skills we should be teaching to teens as they prepare for adulthood?
We still have the ethical responsibility to make sure that our parents are in a safe, comfortable environment where all their needs are met. Some elderly people may require minimal support with their everyday life and health-care demands, while others may require extensive help so staying organized can be helpful. Have a regular meeting with family members, utilize calendars, and delegate tasks.
Do you have elderly relatives in your family who need care? If so, who looks after them?
Finally, caregivers should not forget themselves. Taking time to do the things you enjoy, reflecting on your feelings and interests, and striking a balance between caring for yourself and others are all important self-care tips. Remember, opportunities can be found in the midst of challenges. Don’t forget to find the beauty in your unique circumstance, as difficult as it may be to care for both your parents and your children.
What are the ways sandwich-generation caregivers manage stress?