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Explain It to Me

The sandwich generation: Caring for kids and seniors

Oct 25, 2023
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.
38:19

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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