Tag Archives: Sandwich Generation

I recently returned from a three week trip to China and had the chance to talk to some women about their Sandwich Generation concerns. I was particularly aware of the strong movement away from an agrarian society toward rapid urban growth. Our local “boomer” guides were proud of incorporating Western values into their lifestyle – with more demanding work schedules, higher cost of living and increased stress levels. There, grandparents are well respected and taken care of – many living in the home of one of their sons and his … Continue reading

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With Halloween just around the corner, who would you want to be? What costume would you wear? What would your mask reflect? How would you act – and how is that different from how you usually are? Who said Halloween is just for children – bring out the kid in you and do something playful. As a member of the Sandwich Generation, you deserve to treat youself to a special day.

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Last week we began to talk about ways to connect with your aging parents and perpetuate the values they hold dear. Here are some more suggestions to guide you in this process. Talk with your parents about their past and the stories of their lives. Their tales will become a part of how you remember them. Through you, the history of your parents will be preserved from generation to generation. Look through their old photographs and listen to the memories they evoke. Video tape these conversations to have a lasting … Continue reading

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Several people have written in about how complex it is to be asked to care for an aging parent who has been, and continues to be, difficult. One woman expressed her anguish this way, “My mother is now and always has been self-centered and hard to live with. Now she is old and miserable to be around. I don’t want to put my self into that toxic situation.” Another writes about her 83 yr old mother who is a recovering alcoholic. “It is still hard for me – the feelings … Continue reading

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