If you are currently responsible for caring for your elderly parents while trying to look after your own children, you’re officially a part of the sandwich generation. This is a time in almost every adult’s life that can be challenging, emotional, and frustrating. You are being pulled in all directions, are carrying the responsibility of two (if not more) people. You might not have time to catch your breath.
Here are some tips to help you get through it.
Plan ahead
If you are not quite in the sandwich generation period of your life, but you can see it looming on the horizon, start planning now.
Save up money for childcare or home care. You can find quality assistance throughout the contrary, from assisted living in California, to home care in League City. There is no doubt that you are going to need a helping hand, so you might as well ask for assistance in advance.
It may sound bleak, but it is also worthwhile speaking to your parents about their estate planning needs and their wishes for their care in case they become mentally or physically incapacitated.
Communicate with your employer
The worst thing that you can do is try to conceal your home-life situation from your boss. Be upfront and honest regarding your responsibilities. In this way, you are almost certain to have his or her support if ever you need to leave work early in an emergency.
Seek out support
Taking care of your children in conjunction with an elderly loved one can take a lot out of you. It is mentally and physically exhausting, and definitely isn’t something that you should do alone.
Luckily, there are multiple support groups out there specifically for individuals that are trying to survive the sandwich generation. These support groups are either in-person or online. You are likely to be surprised at just how big of a difference talking to others in similar situations will have on your overall mood and outlook!
