Being a family caregiver is an act of love, but it can also be physically, emotionally, and...
Caring for aging parents and growing children can feel like you're constantly spinning plates in the air and trying not to drop them. The sandwich generation—individuals who face the dual responsibilities of raising their own families while managing the care needs of older loved ones—know this feeling all too well. The emotional and financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially when trying to ensure that seniors receive the best possible care while meeting the needs of children alongside work demands.
If you’re feeling the pressure of being squeezed between the needs of multiple generations, you’re not alone. A Pew Research Center study recently found that more than half of Americans in their 40s are sandwiched between an aging parent and children. To help ease some of the stress, we’ve compiled a list of the top resources available to support you in caring for elderly loved ones.
1. Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) provide services tailored to seniors like meal programs, transportation and in-home assistance. These local organizations act as a bridge, connecting families to essential services. You can search for your local AAA through the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
Key Benefits:
- Free or low-cost support services
- Assistance with locating elder care providers
- Counseling for caregivers
2. Eldercare Locator
Operated by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Eldercare Locator is a nationwide service that helps families connect with community-based organizations offering everything from adult daycare to home health services. This tool is perfect for caregivers who need local solutions quickly.
Key Benefits:
- Quick access to local services
- Wide range of eldercare options
- Available online or via a phone hotline
3. Care.com Senior Care Services
Care.com, a popular site for finding caregivers, also offers specialized senior care services. Whether you’re looking for someone to help with daily activities, medication management, or companionship, you can browse caregivers based on skills, certifications, and reviews to find the perfect fit for your loved one.
Key Benefits:
- Easy caregiver search platform
- Background checks and reviews available
- Options for in-home care, hospice, and more
4. National Institute on Aging (NIA)
The NIA provides reliable, science-based information on aging, caregiving, and senior health. They offer a wealth of articles and resources to educate caregivers on a variety of topics from Alzheimer’s care to financial planning for aging parents.
Key Benefits:
- Expert information on aging and caregiving
- Health and wellness resources for seniors
- Research-driven articles and guides
5. The Alzheimer’s Association
For those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, the Alzheimer’s Association is an invaluable resource. They provide support through their 24/7 Helpline and can assist with connecting you to local resources, care planning, and education on managing Alzheimer’s care.
Key Benefits:
- 24/7 access to a helpline for immediate support
- Local caregiver resources and support groups
- Expert advice on managing dementia care
Finding Balance as a Caregiver
Being a member of the sandwich generation is a challenging, often overwhelming, experience. However, with the right tools and resources, you can navigate this demanding time more easily and effectively—and your Eleplan can keep you organized and others informed. Whether it’s finding local support through your Area Agency on Aging or seeking professional in-home care, there are countless resources at your fingertips. These options offer a great starting point to lighten the load, leaving you more time to care for your family and yourself.
Eleplan: Caregiving Made Simple.
