Submitted by Jennifer Armenia, Saybrook at Haddam.
The Sandwich Generation refers to middle aged people who are caring for both their aging parents and their own children. Balancing a full-time job, taxiing kids to and from school and sports, and making sure mom or dad get to their doctors’ appointments and have food in the fridge is super stressful. Add the coronavirus into the mix, and you’re really feeling the “squeeze.” It’s more like the “Panini Generation” – you’re being pressed and grilled from both sides!
In the spring, schools closed and went to online, or “distance” learning. Many jobs went remote, and mom/dad are in the age group most vulnerable to the virus. The Sandwich Generation is now faced with one, if not two, people trying to work from home, be a teacher to their child(ren), and protect their parents from something with many unknowns; while at the same time ensuring they don’t become isolated and depressed. Wow!
Over the summer, with the easing of restrictions, the number of cases slowing down, the development of routines, and the prospect of kids going back to school in the fall, we were feeling a little better. Now that fall is around the corner and the uncertainty surrounding schools opening, plus the possibility of a resurgence in cases, the pressure is back on. Here are some tips to manage this challenge:
- SELF CARE – taking care of yourself cannot be overstated. You can’t pour from an empty cup. You must make time to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health. If you don’t, you may end up making time for being sick.
- GRATITUDE – despite the pressure, how lucky are we to have these responsibilities? We can always find something to be grateful for.
- PATIENCE – remind yourself that this will end some day. As the saying goes, “It may be stormy now, but it can’t rain forever.”
- FORGIVENESS – If you don’t get everything done when you want it done, forgive yourself. It’s OK. It will get done eventually.
- Lean on your COMMUNITY
- Pool resources with other parents. Hire a tutor or arrange to share teaching/childcare responsibilities with other like-minded parents.
- Consider another living situation or source of help for your parent(s) – while it may seem like a risky idea, a retirement community where your parent can get the support they need whether in the form of meals, personal care assistance, socialization, or recreation, might be just the right solution; especially considering the additional precautions being put in place. You may also be able to hire an in-home caregiver.
As we forge ahead in this strange, new world, know you are not alone and what you’re doing is important and appreciated.
