Are You A Sandwich Generation Member?

If you’re of the age when you’re raising kids and your parents are still alive. Who are you? You actually have a name. Wait for it...you are a member of the “Sandwich Generation.” Believe it or not, there’s an actual definition. And here it is:

You care for your children and your parents. Both parties don’t have to live with you for you to be responsible for both sides but you have to be available to them at all times and that’s a fine line to walk on a daily basis. Members of the Sandwich Generation are stressed more than

they’d care to admit because they are dealing with financial, medical and social issues from both sides of the sandwich as well as their own. It’s not necessary to feel the burden of both sides of the sandwich. Just remember you’re not alone.

To help cope and look after yourself, here’s a few tips:

• Remember to breathe.
• Exercise regularly.
• Read a book or magazine of your choice.
• Talk on the phone with a non-Sandwich member.
• Do an activity you enjoy, like gardening and crafting.
• Listen to music.
• Meditate.
• Sit quietly in your favourite place.
• Go for a drive.
• Take a vacation for a day, weekend or week.
• Watch your favourite television or movie.
• Treat yourself within reason by indulging with chocolate or even a glass of wine.

Also, to alleviate stress with your parent/s, holding a family meeting might be a good idea to discuss legal matters such as setting up the Powers of Attorney and the Will and Testament to give everyone a piece of mind.

Please don’t forget to ask for help. You aren”t superhuman and don”t feel ashamed .Perhaps a therapist or caregivers’ support group may help. Even enjoy a dinner or coffee date with a friend in the same position who would understand.

Case in point...as I wrote this, my 79 year old mother called about an upcoming medical appointment and my 20 year old, who is home for the summer, asked if the laundry was finished.