In our previous blog post titled “The Sandwich Generation: What It Is and Why Caregivers Feel ‘Caught in the Middle,’” we started at the ground floor and sketched out exactly what the title states. Today we tackle the issue of caring for caregivers because as responsibilities for the sandwich generation increase, stress invariably stakes a claim and camps out in their lives.

Who Cares for Sandwich Generation Caregivers?

Unfortunately, the answer to the question of who cares for sandwich generation caregivers is no one. The majority of caregivers work full time and try to balance career obligations with the care they must provide for their children, parents and even grandparents.

What happens one day when disaster strikes? Here’s a possible scenario to contemplate to truly grasp what life can be like for a sandwich generation caregiver.

The said caregiver is about to give a presentation to the C-suite, and he or she gets two calls in the span of hours. A parent is rushed to the hospital and school calls to say that Diana is running a 101^o fever and complaining of a sore throat. How does the sandwich generation caregiver juggle these familial obligations? On the outside looking in, one might think a hospitalization might provide a respite from career responsibilities but alas the stress of having a parent in the hospital offsets any ease.

There are many problems that caregivers face, not just sandwich generation members. According to the American Psychological Association, the most common problems plaguing caregivers fall into two main categories: health and mental health.

For health, caregivers’ concerns are:

• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Risk for illness, injury and even death

On the mental health side, caregivers often experience:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress
• Range of battling emotions, such as guilt, sadness, worry and dread

What Can Help Caregivers?

In helping caregivers, it is all about communication and listening to his or her needs and wants. Some caregivers might desire intermittent times of solitude and space. Or perhaps adult time would help ease stress. And don’t discount something as simple as appreciation from both generations, from the rebellious teenager to the curmudgeon father and everything in between.

The following are some possible solutions that can ease the stress on caregivers:

• Weekly family meetings
• Clarification of house rules
• Preparing a financial plan
• Professional counseling

However, one of the most important tips for caregivers would be to take care of themselves. If the caregiver is not well, physically or emotionally, how can he or she care for either end of the generational spectrum they help?

Here are three easy steps for caregivers to follow that can prove beneficial:

1. Eat a well-balanced diet: Following the new food pyramid is easy. Prioritize high quality protein, whole dairy, and healthy fats, which sit at the top. Additionally, emphasize nutrient-dense, whole foods and decrease processed items. And don’t forget to keep well hydrated. Learn more from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and its updated food pyramid, My Plate.
2. Exercise regularly: As the American Heart Association recommends for overall health, get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and spend less time sitting. In addition, numerous studies prove that regular exercise reduces anxiety, depression and tension.
3. Find a stress buster: If you like to write, journaling allows you to express feelings. Hobbies like drawing, sewing, painting, knitting and reading are also great ways to relieve stress. And don’t discount heading out to the courts for a pickle ball match or to the greens for a round of golf if that’s your cup of tea.

Additionally, it is important for sandwich generation caregivers to know their limits, set boundaries, ask for help, not allow guilt to rule and always have contingency plans.

What Are the Signs of Caregiver Burnout?

Common signs of caregiver burnout include exhaustion, irritability, anxiety, sleep problems, and feeling overwhelmed. If you notice these signs, it may be time to seek support.

Support can come from:

• Family members
• Friends
• Community resources
• Healthcare providers

Isolation is common for caregivers so connection matters. Even small actions help such as phone calls from friends, support groups and short breaks outside the home.

Where Can Caregivers Find Support?

You don’t have to navigate caregiving alone. These trusted resources can help:

• Family Caregiver Alliance
• AARP Caregiving Resource Center

ng sandwich generation caregivers is not all doom and gloom. There are a number of benefits to taking care of children, parents and grandparents. Individuals in the middle of the sandwich have a great sense of belonging and family well-being. And when caregiving is shared, the burden is eased for each family member.

Have questions or want more information?

If you’d like to learn more or have general questions about Medicare, you can call SECUR Health Plan at 1.833.76SECUR (1.833.767.3287). TTY callers can use 711. Our team is ready to answer your questions and support your health journey.