Balancing Life: The Sandwich Generation

Melissa A. Talamantes, MSUniversity Of Texas Health

Science CenterSan Antonio, Texas

Learning Objectives

Understand Caregiving Demographics

Identify Caregiver/care recipient resources interventions

Ideas for taking care of yourself

Caregiving Demographics

1 in every 4 U.S.households provides care to a relative or friend over age 50

Informal, unpaid care from family,friends is primary source of care for older adults with disabilities in the community

CaregiversFamily Caregivers provide some type of care to at least 70% of persons with dementia in their homes

National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP,2004,1997

Caregiving Demographics

At least 15% of caregivers in the National Caregiving study reported suffering from physical and mental health problems as a result of caregiving (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 )

21% of caregivers aged 50-64 report having physical & mental health problems compared to 9% of those aged 18-34, and 13%, aged 35-49 (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 )

Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions

Thorough physical/mental health assessment in primary care setting

Appropriate treatment plan and follow-up which include physical/ functional needs

Include care recipient when possible in care plans & decision making

Caregiver Interventions

Advocacy Assistance

Referral for caregiver/elder resources

Supportive Services (respite, home-health, long-term care planning)

Supportive Counseling & Support Groups

Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions

Network with other Caregivers

Caregivers must be active participants in the care of their elderly

Manage Daily Life: KeepPerson Enjoyably Involved

Manage Behavior: HelpPerson Remain Calm

and in Control

The Main Work ofthe Caregiver

Manage Resources -- Including Family Resources

for Care

Manage Own Well-Being:Caregiver Self-Care

How do you reduce your tension?

Ways to Reduce Tension

Educate other family about caregiving issues

Pay attention to your needs:Healthy Eating

Physical Activity

Adequate Rest

Find some time to do the things you enjoy

Ways to Reduce Tension

Control fatigue

Accept changes

Plan legal & financial issues

Recognize your efforts & let go of the guilt

Seek community resources

What would you do with the following free time?

Exercise You have one week available without the caregiving responsibility

You have one weekend available without caregiving responsibilites

You have one full day available without the caregiving responsibilites

You have 3 free hours

You have 1 full hour

You have 15 minutes of free time

Caregiver/Care Recipient Resources

Respite/Home Health Volunteer: Senior Companion ProgramsAdult Day ActivitySupport Groups/Church NetworksTransportationEldercare Locator-nationwide toll free service helping older adults & caregivers find local services 1-800-677-1116www.eldercare.govwww.caregiver.org