Thanks to amazing advances in medicine and science, we are living longer than ever. Because of this, those caring for both children and senior parents, sometimes known as the “sandwich generation”, are finding a new niche in their older years: the boomerang generation.
“Aging together” is the descriptor for older adults whose mom and dad are still living and requiring good care. The result is a wave of seniors uprooting and moving home to take care of parents. And in some cases, the senior child is fighting his or her own health concerns, further complicating the dynamics and generating a higher risk for caregiver burnout – on both sides of the equation.
Associate Professor of Gerontology Kathrin Boerner, of the University of MA, explains the issue: “For a lot of people, that is the time – if you’re in good enough health – you hope for a time of greater freedom. You’re past all the other caregiving tasks and, for most people, they can dedicate time to their own needs. But for those with very old parents, it just doesn’t happen.”
While the regenerated bond between older adult children and their aging parents can be therapeutic for all involved, such as through finding shared interests that can be enjoyed together, the toll that caregiving usually takes in later years can lead to greater levels of stress, depression, and even physical health issues.
Thankfully, there’s a solution to offer the beneficial care for senior children as well as their elderly parents, making it possible for both to concentrate specifically on relishing quality time together: hiring an in-home caregiver from a professional Chicago senior care agency like Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. We can help in several different ways, tailored to each family’s particular situation, including such services as:
- Running errands, including shopping for groceries and picking up prescription drugs
- Making healthy and balanced meals
- Assisting with light housekeeping and washing
- Personal care services which include assistance with showering and dressing
- Providing transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments or fun outings
- And much more
Our care providers are thoroughly background checked, trained, and proficient in all aspects of care. Leave the routine tasks to us, and get back to enjoying life with those you love! Contact our Hinsdale home care office today.