The sandwich generation: Caring for kids and seniors
Oct 25, 2023
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Vox senior correspondent Ann discusses the challenges faced by the sandwich generation, caring for children and aging loved ones at the same time. They explore the gaps in eldercare policy, the emotional challenges of caregiving, the declining ratio of caregivers, and the limitations of Medicare and Medicaid. Additionally, they discuss the difference in costs and care between nursing homes and at-home caregiving, the challenges faced by caregivers, and the need for better elder care policies and support.
The rise of the sandwich generation, where adults are juggling the responsibilities of caring for their children and aging parents, highlights the need for support and resources in managing caregiving responsibilities.
The shift towards community-based caregiving is challenging traditional notions of care, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, cultural specificity, and building strong neighborhood bonds.
Deep dives
The challenges of the sandwich generation
Taking care of both children and aging relatives is putting a strain on families, especially as families are getting married and having children later in life. The rise of the sandwich generation, where adults are juggling the responsibilities of caring for their children and aging parents, is becoming more common. With the increasing costs of childcare and elder care, families are feeling the financial burden as well. The sandwich generation is facing challenges in providing care, managing their own work, and maintaining their own well-being, highlighting the need for support and resources.
The changing landscape of caregiving
With families evolving and traditional support systems changing, caregiving is taking on a new shape. The stigma around nursing homes and the desire for aging in place have sparked a demand for multi-generational living and community support networks. Organizations like Sisters Aging with Grace and Elegance and the Villages Movement are creating safe spaces and providing resources for black women and neighborhoods to come together and support one another. This shift towards community-based caregiving is challenging the traditional notions of care and highlighting the importance of inclusivity, cultural specificity, and building strong neighborhood bonds.
The need for policy reform
Current policies like the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provide some job protection but do not address the financial strain of caregiving. President Biden's Build Back Better Act aims to improve paid leave and boost pay for home health aides, recognizing the value of caregiving and the need for financial support. At the state level, programs in states like New York and Washington are exploring ways to cover care costs and provide payment for family caregivers through Medicaid. These policies signify a growing understanding of the caregiving crisis and the importance of investing in the well-being of caregivers.
Preparing for the caregiver role
Preparing to take on the role of a caregiver involves seeking training opportunities and resources. More training programs for family caregivers are needed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide effective care. Resources like the National Alliance for Caregiving offer support and guidance, while therapists with experience in caregiving can provide valuable assistance for caregivers' mental health. Caring for one's own well-being is essential in balancing the demands of caregiving and maintaining personal resilience.
The struggles of caretaking are nothing new, but there’s a trend emerging as baby boomers get older: More and more younger adults are becoming part of the “sandwich generation.” That means they’re caring for young children and aging loved ones at the same time, and this change is exposing gaps in eldercare policy. More than half of Americans in their 40s and a quarter of adults overall are becoming part of this growing cohort. This week on The Weeds, we sat down with Vox senior correspondent Anna North about how we got here, what to do, and what’s next.