Are You in the Sandwich Generation?

If you feel overwhelmed by the demands of work and caring for your children and your aging parents–you are not alone. You’re part of the sandwich generation. The stresses of caring for everyone else can take its toll on you emotionally and physically. Help is available from your company and community. Here’s how you can lighten the load.

Help with Eldercare

• Home health services are available in the community. They can provide nursing/companion care, house-cleaning and hot meals so your parents stay in their own house as long as possible.
• Adult day care centers provide structured activities and opportunities for socialization weekdays and sometimes on the weekends.
• Assisted living facilities and nursing homes offer around-the-clock care for the elderly once they can no longer live on their own. Check with your local office on aging for listings and subsidized care.

Help with Childcare

• Many childcare options exist, ranging from nannies to family home providers to large day care centers.
• Older children and teens can get involved with after school programs at their schools or community organizations such as the YWCA or YMCA.
• If you need advice on parenting or dealing with a difficult child, look into your company’s benefits policy to see what they offer.

Non-Traditional Work Hours

• Check with your employer about modifying your workweek so you can best meet all the demands of family and work.
• Options include part-time work, telecommuting, and flex-time which means working 40 hours in 4 or fewer days.

Also, depending on your company, you may be eligible for the Family Medical Leave Act which allows you to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a child or other family member. Some employers also have a money-saving option that allows you to set aside some of your salary pre-tax for dependent care. Finally, don’t forget to take time for yourself. The great demands placed on the caregiver can lead to burn-out, so learn how to de-stress and ask others for help when you need it.