If you're caught in the middle between your responsibilities to your spouse and children and caring for your aging parents, you're a genuine member of the sandwich generation. You know the stress of never having quite enough time or energy to give all members of your family the attention you feel they deserve.
Should you attend your daughter's soccer game or take your father to his doctor's appointment? Should you go to a movie with your spouse or visit your mom? These decisions are never easy to make.
There's obviously no perfect answer to dilemmas like these — but there are steps you can take to make it easier for you to balance your family responsibilities:
Involve your spouse and your children.
Share your feelings with them about how important it is for you to care for your parents. Work with them to develop a weekly schedule and do your best to adhere to it. Ask for their advice and support when making decisions that could affect them.
Understand your parents' true needs.
Learn all you can about your parents' condition and how you can best help them. Aim to provide the most appropriate care while respecting their independence.
Nurture your marriage and your important relationships.
Make time to enjoy the company of friends and to preserve the romance in your marriage. These vital connections will remain important even when you complete your responsibilities as a caregiver.
Give yourself a break.
Eat well, stay rested, and exercise regularly. Give yourself credit for doing the best possible job you can do, rather than focus on things you haven't accomplished. Know your limits and give yourself a break when you reach them.
