In Home Care Services Provide Respite for the Sandwich Generation

Generation X has grown up to become the "Sandwich Generation" caught between trying to support their children while also caring for an elderly parent. Millions of American adults between the ages of 40 and 59 fall into this personal and financial pressure point that can be exacerbated by rising college expenses and the impact of the recession. Add the demands of career and marriage, and life can quickly become stressful. If parents live a long distance away, the stress and guilt can be even greater.

Quality In Home Care Support

As the Baby Boomers have moved into their elder years, support services have grown to meet their needs and the needs of those caring for them. Many older adults want to remain in their home where they are comfortable and can maintain more independence. Unfortunately, there are risks associated with this situation such as not being able to handle an emergency, forgetting to take medication, and letting personal grooming or good nutrition fall by the wayside. In home caregivers can handle many of these necessities, help provide transportation and companionship.

A caregiver who is the right match for the older adult will encourage them to stay active both physically and mentally. Care at home can range from an aide who provides non-medical care and helps with the Activities of Daily Living to a skilled home health nurse. Having the right level of care for the aging parent provides peace of mind to the family.

Initially, a senior adult may only need a little extra help. It may not be feasible for a family member who lives close by to stop in daily, and of course, this is impossible for the adult child who lives far away. Having a caregiver for half a day a couple of times each week can relieve the stress of cooking, grocery shopping, driving to the hairdresser, and other routine activities.

Caregiver Respite

Even if an elderly adult is being taken care of full-time by a family member, in home care can provide a necessary respite for the family. It is vital that family caregivers find time for themselves to recharge for the emotional demands of caring for others. Trained and screened caregivers can provide a range of services including caring for those just getting out of the hospital or a rehab facility and even tending to those with Alzheimer's or dementia.

It may be difficult to broach the subject of bringing someone new into the home. Approaching this issue with sensitivity and patience is key.