Tips for the “sandwich generation”

We have talked about what some refer to as the “sandwich generation.” This is a group of individuals usually in their thirties to fifties who are sandwiched between raising their own families and caring for aging loved ones.

Here are some of the trends that we’re seeing that are causing this group of the population to grow so much. We offer three tips that could help juggle those related responsibilities.

May is National Elder Law Awareness Month and what better way to celebrate this month than by highlighting this growing field of law and spotlighting this growing part of the population. Some of the trends that are causing the sandwich generation to grow so rapidly are related to longer life expectancies, people retiring later in their lives — probably because of the rising costs of living and also the rising costs of care — and people starting families later on in their lives. Also, there was a rapid increase in the sandwich generation following the pandemic because many families opted to provide care for their loved ones at home rather than having them move into facilities.

We have assisted our clients in the sandwich generation deal with all of these anxieties and stresses by suggesting three tips that we think can provide support, help and confidence.

Number one, plan ahead. Make sure things like advanced directives and powers of attorney are in place now while you still can. These will really lay a foundation to help those who will need this in the future.

Number two, communicate openly. It’s okay to have conversations with your family, not only the ones you’re raising, but the aging loved ones that you’re assisting, to set expectations, figure out what everyone’s wishes are and create a much smoother environment going forward. And if it’s possible, I encourage more communication with other family members, like adult siblings, which can really help head off some of that trouble that could be down the road.

And number three, seek support. There is no reward for the person who does the most work. It’s okay to delegate some of these responsibilities and you probably should. Go ahead and seek support from professionals like elder law attorneys or care providers or financial advisors. You can turn to the community, talk to your family, your friends, figure out who can help with what and when. It’s okay to remember that managing stress and challenges is not about doing more, it’s about doing it smarter.

If you’re a member of the sandwich generation, we strongly suggest that you talk to an elder law attorney to help you plan and head off tomorrow’s burdens.

Client alert authored by Mallory A. Moreno, Certified Elder Law Attorney,* (312.855.4317), principal

This Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. communication is intended only to provide information regarding developments in the law and information of general interest. It is not intended to constitute advice regarding legal problems and should not be relied upon as such.

*Certified Elder Law Attorney: As of this writing, there are only 13 Certified Elder Law Attorneys (CELA) in the State of Illinois, two of whom are partners in the Elder Law practice at Chuhak & Tecson, P.C.