The sandwich generation: Coping with aging parents and growing children

Credit to Author: Cheryl Song| Date: Wed, 17 Jul 2024 02:02:33 +0000

Have you heard of the “sandwich generation”? This term is used to describe a unique group – parents who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents and growing children. Alongside navigating the complexities of the Canadian healthcare, childcare and senior care systems, these parents face challenges such as limited availability and high costs of childcare or caregiving services for their elderly parents.

For new immigrant parents, sandwich generation parenting can be particularly daunting. They may be unfamiliar with the Canadian system, lack extended family support, and face language and cultural differences.

Balancing these responsibilities might lead to caregiver burnout, impacting their relationships, work, and overall health and wellbeing. Therefore, having a strong support system is crucial for the sandwich generation as they manage the stressors of supporting parents and children financially, physically and emotionally.

Family finance

 The high cost of caring for seniors and growing children can be a struggle, especially when parents have to take time off work to provide care. Look into eligibility and benefits such as the Canada Child Tax Benefit, Canada Caregiver Credit, childcare subsidies, and caregiving benefits and leave. Don’t forget about family insurance, as well as wills and estate planning.

Healthy ways to manage stress

Recognizing your stressors and finding ways to manage stress is equally important. Whether it’s seeking professional help or talking to a friend, exercising or meditating, find healthy ways to reduce stress. Identify ways to reduce or delegate tasks, such as asking for outside help, prioritizing tasks, and saying no to less urgent tasks.

 Network of support systems

 The complexities of caring for elders and growing children require access to various community groups and support services. Whether it’s parenting courses, family caregivers support groups, helplines, childcare, senior care, healthcare, or respite care, there are many excellent resources available in your community that can help lighten parents’ responsibilities. Remember to also reach out to family and friends for support.

 Self-care

 Prioritize your well-being by integrating self-care steps into daily life. Set healthy boundaries and take time to recharge. Be kind and compassionate to yourself. Moreover, take care of your physical and mental health by eating right, getting enough sleep, and having regular checkups.

Intergenerational bonding

Integrating opportunities for intergenerational bonding and learning is vital for sandwich generation families. While young children and grandparents have different needs, they have much to offer each other. Bringing different generations together can foster stronger family bonds, facilitate the sharing of skills and family history, and improve the family’s overall wellbeing.

Sandwich generation parents play a crucial and challenging role within their families, addressing the evolving needs of both aging parents and growing children. As primary caregivers, they serve as essential role models for their families. Model healthy self-care practices, delegation, prioritization, and the establishment of a strong support network for your family. Lastly, recognize that you are already doing your best by consistently showing up, caring for, and loving your multigenerational family. Keep up the good work!

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