I recently became familiar with the term “the sandwich generation.” This refers to adults who are simultaneously caring for their own children, as well as for their elderly parents.
Currently, the typical age range for folks in this position is 40-60. But my siblings and I know that we are going to be joining the ranks of the sandwich generation sometime in the next 2-10 years.
This is because my father was recently diagnosed with vascular dementia. While he is not currently in need of any assistance, because of his diagnosis, that will change, and we can’t be sure quite how long it will be before that happens. And we need to have a plan that we all like (most importantly, my father). While he is still able to help with these decisions about his care, we need to make them now.
This is a completely overwhelming prospect. My father’s children range in age from 18-35, and we all live away from my father and away from each other. We are all also in different life stages. It makes getting together for really hard conversations pretty darn tough.
The Sandwich Generation’s Guide to Eldercare
So when the opportunity came to read and review a book about this very topic, I knew that I needed to do it. Let me be clear: I didn’t WANT to read it. But that has everything to do with me being in denial of the issue, and nothing to do with the book, itself.
The Sandwich Generation’s Guide to Eldercare
But this book feels like the map I need. I don’t think it is exhaustive, and I don’t think it is for people who have been providing care for their elderly parents for years and already know how it all works. It is for people like me who now realize that this is coming and that they need to get a plan together now.
I’d love to hear if any of my readers are currently part of the sandwich generation? If so, does your parent live with you, or in an assisted living facility or nursing home? Any tips for those of us who are about to have to step up their responsibilities?
My parents especially my Dad are getting into their late 70’s now and I can see the writing on the wall for my future. I would love some help for sure. Thanks for this giveaway.
I would love to give this as a gift.
want to win for my friend
My mother and step father are getting older and aren’t in the greatest health. This book would be very helpful!
As an elder law attorney I think it would be a great addition to my office resources! so many people are facing these problems.
I would like to give it as a gift.
I am a care provider and I am always looking to learn more
I’m sorry about your dad’s diagnosis….My mom is in her 60’s and my kids are 1 and 7. Mom will have one of her knees replaced next month and the other one will be done shortly after. My sister and I are very unsure how we are going to handle her rehab. Thinking about her future care is overwhelming, but maybe this book could give my sister and me some ideas and reassurance.
Yikes. Yes, I’m guessing that her physical theraby is going to be extensive for that. It is a VERY good idea for you and your sister to come together with some sort of a plan about how to make sure your mother is seen about and that the two of you maintain your sanity.
needing for my grandmother
I would like to win because I think its a very interesting read.
I would like to win it because someday I will probably have to take care of my mom.
I’m 42 years old, my daughter is 5 years old and my parents are 65 years old. This will be me shortly.
May be needing soon father in law