GEN S—the Sandwich Generation—is feeling the pressure. Juggling care for aging parents and children is no joke. Discover the emotional and financial strain millions quietly carry.
Jeff DeJoseph
Leader in Aging in Place Services
GEN S: The Sandwich Generation’s Silent Crisis (No Baloney)
The “sandwich generation” is a term that’s become increasingly relevant in today’s society. It describes adults—often in their 40s to 60s—who find themselves caring for both their aging parents and their own children at the same time. This dual role is not just a logistical juggling act—it’s a profound emotional, financial, and psychological challenge that millions now face.
Let’s call them GENERATION S.
GEN S: Caught in the Middle
Nearly a quarter of adults providing care for a parent over 65 are also raising at least one child under 18. With people living longer and many having children later in life, this overlap of caregiving responsibilities has become more common than ever.
These pressures are compounded by:
- •Rising costs of childcare and eldercare
- •Expensive education
- •Stagnant wages
- •Shifting family structures
The Daily Struggle: Emotional and Financial Toll
Gen S-ers often feel pulled in every direction. They’re balancing:
- •Doctor’s appointments, medications, and finances for aging parents
- •Parent-teacher conferences and soccer practices for their kids
- •Full-time work, home responsibilities, and their own mental health
The emotional toll is heavy. Studies show Gen S caregivers are:
- •Twice as likely to report financial difficulty
- •More prone to guilt, anxiety, depression, and burnout
- •At higher risk for mental health struggles than those caring for just one generation
Financially, It’s No Joke
Supporting two generations often means:
- •Dipping into savings
- •Delaying retirement
- •Accumulating debt
Parents may need help with housing or medical costs. Children require support with school, clothing, food, and everything else life throws at them. It’s a stressful balancing act—and stress is enormous.
The Ripple Effect: Impact Beyond the Family
This isn’t just a personal issue. The struggles of Generation S ripple into workplaces and communities:
- •Decreased productivity as employees miss work or operate under extreme stress
- •Billions in lost productivity and turnover for U.S. businesses
- •Gaps in care for both children and aging parents
- •Strained family relationships due to emotional and financial exhaustion
Seeking Solutions: Coping and Support
Despite the crushing load, there are ways to lighten it. Experts recommend:
- •Sharing the burden with siblings or trusted family
- •Seeking flexible work schedules
- •Accessing local support groups and community programs
- •Planning ahead for finances, care, and expectations
- •Having honest conversations with your family
And most importantly:
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.
Recognize your limits. Ask for help. Take care of yourself so you can continue caring for others.
Gen S Deserves Support
The plight of the sandwich generation is a silent crisis, and it’s real—not baloney. As our population ages and family dynamics evolve, we need to do more to support Gen S:
- •Workplace flexibility
- •Financial planning assistance
- •Caregiving education and respite services
- •Stronger community and healthcare networks
Only then can we ensure that those caught in the middle aren’t left to shoulder the burden alone.
“GEN S is doing it all. Let’s make sure they’re not doing it alone.”
If you're a Gen S-er trying to balance it all, you're not alone. At 360 Degree Care, we see you—and we're here to help. Explore support resources and caregiving solutions that can ease your load.
Jeff DeJoseph is a leader in the evolving field of aging in place and the services that enable people to remain happy and healthy at home. His company, 360 Degree Care, provides concierge home care services for seniors and those returning from the hospital or rehab.