The Sandwich Generation
The Sandwich Generation refers to people who are responsible for caring for their elderly parents while also raising their own children. According to the Pew Research Center, more than 1 in 8 Americans between the ages of 40 to 60 are managing both child-rearing and elder care, in addition to an estimated 7 to 10 million adults providing long-distance support for their aging parents.
The Emergence of the Term
This term was officially added to the Merriam-Webster dictionary in July 2006.
Changing Family Dynamics
Due to economic challenges, there has been a significant rise in the number of young adults who return to live with their parents after college or continue residing with them during their higher education. A 2012 study by the Pew Research Center, featured in the article “The Boomerang Generation,” found that around 29% of young adults aged 25 to 34 live at home. This trend is becoming increasingly normal, and those in these situations often express satisfaction, which may further entrench this arrangement.
Responsibilities of Parents
As a result, parents of these young adults find themselves in the position of having to care for their children for longer than they anticipated, while also taking on the role of caregiver for their own aging parents.
Get Involved
Good Life Family magazine will explore a wide range of topics that are relevant to the Sandwich Generation. We invite your input! If you have inquiries or insights to share, please reach out to Tricia White, the Managing Editor, at Tricia@GoodLifeFamilyMag.com
