The Latest Sandwich Generation Transformation: The Boomerangs

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sandwich generationWe’re living longer than ever before, thanks to incredible advances in science and medicine, and as a result, the sandwich generation (those caring for children and parents simultaneously) are finding a new niche as they age: the boomerang generation.

“Aging together” is the caption for older adults whose mother and father are still living and requiring good care. The result is that after retirement, many seniors are uprooting and returning back to their home-towns to live closer to their elderly parents. And in many cases, the senior child is experiencing his or her own health conditions, further complicating the dynamics and generating a higher risk for caregiver burnout – on both sides of the equation.

Associate Professor of Gerontology Kathrin Boerner, of the University of MA, points out the challenge: “For a lot of people, that is the time – if you’re in good enough health – you hope for a time of greater freedom. You’re past all the other caregiving tasks and, for most people, they can dedicate time to their own needs. But for those with very old parents, it just doesn’t happen.”

Even though the regenerated bond between older adult children and their senior parents can be beneficial for all involved, such as through identifying shared interests that can be experienced together, the toll that caregiving may take later in life can lead to increased levels of stress, depression, and also physical health issues.

The good news is, there’s a strategy to supply the beneficial care for senior children in addition to their elderly parents, allowing both to focus solely on having quality time together: hiring an in-home caregiver from a professional senior care agency like CareWorks Health Services. We are able to help in several different ways, personalized to each family’s unique circumstances, including such services as:

  • Running errands, including grocery shopping and picking up medications
  • Making healthy and balanced meals
  • Assisting with light housework and washing laundry
  • Personal care services which include assistance with bathing and dressing
  • Providing transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments or fun outings
  • And much more

Our Orange County, CA caregivers are fully background checked, trained, and proficient in all aspects of care. Leave the routine tasks to us, and get back to making the most of life with those you love! Contact us any time at (949) 859-4700 for assistance.