Are you sandwich filling?

The sand wich generation, generally people between 30 and 60 years of age, are responsible for bringing up their own children and, at the same time, caring for their aging parents. Are you in this group? In the and wich generation, there is a special group called club sandwich.

These people have elderly parents, children and grandchildren.

Are you being squeezed into any type of sandwich?

With family members of many different ages, living in other provinces or other countries, the issues can be very complex.

According to a recent survey completed by Insights West, the majority of British Columbians fit into the sandwich generation demographic.

In the survey, only 10 per cent indicated they were not having any challenges.

So, if this generation is a majority and ninety percent have challenges, a significant number of people are affected.

Over the next 10 years, one in three parents anticipate taking care of both a child and an elderly parent.

The percentage is even higher for those between 20-and-34 years of age.

Almost half responded ‘yes’, they anticipate being right in the middle of the sandwich generation.

One of the most concerning questions was: How well you are coping?

Sixty-five per cent responded: ‘not well’ or ‘not well at all’.

The sandwich generation is having difficulty finding time to visit and help with care, due to work and busy schedules.

They are finding it challenging to be kept informed about the health status of their aging parents.

Financially, 56 per cent of respondents were having difficulty affording the costs associated with caring for an aging parent.

The sandwich generation is squeezed at all levels, physically, emotionally and financially.

At social settings we ask each other: How’s your mom? How’s your dad?

We share stories of how we are coping and finding the time to help. Caring for your children Each week, create a weekly menu, make one trip to the grocery store and always have wholesome snacks and leftovers in the fridge and freezer.

This is healthier and saves you money because you won’t be picking up fast food on the run.

To help save time, hook up with other parents to carpool to activities, use your time efficiently and schedule your appointments in advance.

Make time for yourself to go to the gym, for a walk or find a yoga class.

Make family time on the weekends and find an activity you can do together. Emotionally Talk with your family and friends.

Share your experiences and listen to others who are in a similar situation. Physically It is definitely helpful if your parents are in the same city so you can pop by for a visit or take them to an appointment.

If they aren’t, schedule a visit every few months or once a year, depending on need.

Many families have one child (your brother or sister) who lives close by. Your visit will help and support them. Financially Save and invest. If the money is not needed for your children or aging parents, then it will be there for you.

For the sandwich generation, a tax-free savings account is the best and most flexible.

The maximum contribution amount is $5,500 per year.

The sandwich generation is challenging. You are balancing your life along with family?