Released October 16, 2008
STILLWATER, Okla. – The original “sandwich generation” consisted of parents between the ages of 35 and 55 who were caring for their own young children, as well as aging parents.
As society changes, the sandwich generation is turning into the baby boomer “club sandwich generation.”
Jan Johnston, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service gerontology specialist, said more and more middle aged adults are now caring for their aging parents, adult children, any children still at home and then grandchildren come into the picture.
“This group of caregivers is that middle slice of bread in a triple-decker sandwich,” Johnston said. “These 50-something parents are looking after their own parents’ needs, often are assisting their grown children financially and are providing care for their grandchildren. A recent study indicates that as many as 11 percent of Americans over the age of 50 are members of the club sandwich generation and are taking on obligations to the generation above them, in addition to the two generations that follow them.”
It can be challenging enough to handle all aspects of raising and providing for your own family. When a person becomes a member of the club sandwich generation, juggling additional responsibilities can be tough. Recognizing one’s limitations while actively seeking support is key to balancing the growing demands of providing care to family members.
It is important for the caregiver to acknowledge his or her feelings about the situation. Be sure to set aside time for yourself. To help maintain your physical health it is important to get plenty of sleep and exercise and try to eat healthy foods.
“A couple of things many people forget about - especially women in the caregiving role - are caring for themselves and involving other people in the caregiving process,” she said. “If the caregiver has brothers and sisters, have a family discussion about sharing the care of their parents. Seek professional assistance and investigate and use any community resources that are available.”
For many baby boomers who find themselves “sandwiched” into multiple caregiving roles, one thing to keep in mind is to take care of yourself financially first.
“Keep putting money away for retirement and college savings accounts for children who are still at home,” Johnston said. “As much as you may want to lend a financial hand to your parents, do so after considering the needs of younger children. There aren’t nearly as many governmental programs to help you raise your own family as there are to help support your parents.”
Something else to keep in mind is having legal authority to act swiftly on your parents’ behalf in the event of an emergency. Ideally, adult children and their parents need to plan early and discuss wishes before emergencies strike. A durable power of attorney can authorize someone else to sign checks, pay bills and make financial decisions on the elder parent’s behalf. Caregivers also will need a durable power of attorney for health care authorizing someone else to make medical decisions. In addition, it is essential to have a living will that outlines parents’ wishes should life-sustaining medical care be needed.
“When you’re being pulled in numerous directions, it can be hard to deal with all the demands in your life,” Johnston said. “Just remember that there are a number of resources available to individuals who are experiencing life in the club sandwich generation.”
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Contact: Trisha Gedon, 405-744-3625, trisha.gedon@okstate.edu
