Golden Guidance: Five Tips for "Sandwiched" Caregivers
The "sandwich generation" is traditionally defined as those who have a living parent and are either raising a child under age 18 or supporting an adult child. However, we could easily broaden that definition. We care for many layers of our family and friends (parents, children, grandchildren, grandparents, siblings, spouses, partners, neighbors, pets) while working, managing finances and households and caring for ourselves Here are some suggestions to maintain a sense of self when you're caught in between the layers:
Specifically, the essence of what makes us who we are. What is the unique combination of interests and skills that makes you "you?" Find ways to incorporate them in your life, even when caregiving, whether it be singing, painting, sewing or playing an instrument.
We may set daily, weekly and big-picture priorities, but with so many demands on our time, we have to be able to reprioritize as circumstances constantly change.
There are only so many hours in the day and only so much of ourselves to spread around. You don't have the luxury of wasting a single minute. Not naturally organized? Consult a professional organizer for help.
No matter how superhuman we are, no one can deal with all these layers of responsibilities alone. Get help with caregiving as well as with your own tasks - things like work, cleaning and shopping.
Every responsibility requires emotional and mental energy. Consider a variety of ways to refill your energy tank so you can keep going, including respite support for your loved ones, connecting with a support group or simply taking time to read a book for pleasure.
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