Surviving the Sandwich Generation [Bulletin date: August 2, 2026]
Many adults struggle between caring for their aging parents and raising their own children. They are known as the “sandwich generation”. It’s a role that is both rewarding and stressful at times.
Here are some
ways to plan ahead with a senior parent to avoid an unexpected crisis:
1)
Make
an estate plan and update it every 5 years.
2)
Determine
how to pay for long-term care.
3)
Create
both Financial Power of Attorney and Advance Healthcare Directives.
4)
Discuss
end-of-life wishes such as medical care, life support, organ donation, and
burial wishes, with everyone involved.
5) Be sure to put all important documents (ID cards, medical histories, physician contacts, medication lists, military records, health care directives, etc.) in one, easily accessible location.
And just for
the fun of it…
6) Include all three generations in special “sandwich celebrations” with meals such as grilled cheese sandwiches, subs or wrap sandwiches, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and ice cream sandwiches!
Multigenerational families can be a blessing to everyone. Being proactive by planning ahead can prevent many headaches and reduce worries for all involved.
St. Ann Parish Nurse
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