Suggestions for Caregivers of the Sandwich Generation
Does caring for your children and aging parents leave you weary and exhausted? Some have even called you "sandwich generation." Rest assured, you are not alone in this.
The term "sandwich generation" describes the current generation of young people juggling the needs of two sets of grandparents and their children.
According to the Pew Research Foundation, more than half of individuals in their forties are caring for an elderly parent and raising a kid. This proportion rises to 23% of the adult population. The percentage of Americans living in homes with more than one generation has increased from 7% in 1971 to 18% in 2021, a roughly fourfold increase.
Visiting Angels of Alexandria is here to help! Contact us at 703-333-5086 for help with your aging loved one.
Signs to Look for in Caregiver Stress
As you try to meet the needs of those on the receiving and giving ends of care, you may find yourself caught in the midst. Regrettably, you may have to sacrifice some of your self-care. But what happens if you burn out? Who will take care of your kids and parents if you cannot?
Caregivers should be aware of burnout's warning symptoms and prepare to reduce their workload before it becomes too much. Recognizing the warning signs of caregiver stress might benefit caregivers and their loved ones emotionally and physically.
Be on the lookout for these warning indications of caregiver burnout:
- Feeling anxious
- Complete dedication to providing care
- Tension and hostility
- Feeling exhausted
- Feelings of remorse or anger Disinterest in spending time with loved ones
- Disinterest in physical activity and social activities
- Using tobacco products, excessive alcohol use, or overeating
- Pains in the body, such as headaches or backaches
- Problems falling asleep or staying asleep
- Changes in weight all of a sudden
The effects on one's bodily and mental health, relationships, and capacity to provide for one's loved ones may be devastating if one continues to push through persistent worry and stress. Anxiety, sadness, and drug abuse are among the mental health issues that up to one-third of unpaid caregivers experience, according to studies. Make time for self-care and seek assistance if you feel overwhelmed by stress or anxious thoughts.
How to Ensure You're Caring for Yourself
To give yourself a break, have your older children or young adults pitch in to care for your aging parent. Younger generations aid their grandparents, forming a more profound relationship and kinship.
To make self-care a priority, consider the following:
Stay active and focus on what you eat.
An active lifestyle and a healthy diet benefit mental and physical health. To improve your energy and attitude, eat more fresh fruit, cut down on sweets, and moderate exercise, like going for a stroll once a day.
Find a group of people that can help you.
Joining a caregiver support group is a beautiful opportunity to meet others in the sandwich generation. If you're suffering from burnout, talking to others who understand what you're going through and obtaining advice on preventing it might help.
Learn to unwind and be present in the moment.
Stress relief techniques include deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and prayer. Mindfulness practices, no matter how brief, may have a profound impact.
See a medical professional if you find that taking care of yourself isn't preventing burnout. Following their advice may enhance your physical and emotional well-being.
Visiting Angels of Alexandria Are Available To Assist You
We, the sandwich generation, were taught from a young age that nothing was impossible if we worked hard enough and did it alone. The reality, however, is that you will burn out if you always strive to please everyone. You can't give what you don't have, so keep that in mind. Self-care should be a top priority to improve your mood, physical health, and ability to care for others who rely on you.
If you need assistance, think about Visiting Angels' respite care service. When you need a break from being the primary caregiver, you may get it via respite care or short-term or temporary home care. Services are available as-needed, hourly, nightly, or multi-day. Another option is to hire professional caregivers to visit your house once a week, twice a month, or once a month.
To find out how Visiting Angels of Alexandria may assist your family member or friend, contact the home care office in your area. Call now to set up your no-cost consultation for in-home care.
