The Sandwich Age: I am at an age that they call the sandwich age – still raising kids while helping aging parents.
I am not sure about you, but I watched my parents age significantly during the Covid pandemic.
I must admit, I am fortunate – I have a relationship with my parents that is very open, honest and realistic. The bonus is that they are approachable about the tough subjects and willing to discuss.
Currently we are looking into assisted living as their health is starting to decline, to provide the best quality of life.
It is interesting to see what is available in different cities, compared to rural areas, and what other countries have to offer.
Some options are amazing at a decent price with many activities and beautiful grounds to offer, while others are very expensive, with limitations.
Something I wish we had more of was neat facilities for our elderly.
I found a place in Australia for a friend’s mom that was on 18 acres of land with numerous walkways, activities, outings, different levels of care from individual living, assisted living, personal care to palliative care. It was an amazing facility that offered different sized apartments / rooms, furnished or unfurnished with meals for less than half the monthly price of what we pay in Canada.
I wish we had that here for my parents – it would ease my mind and give them the best possible life as they both grew up on farms and enjoyed the outdoors. If only I could win the lottery! Lol
Questions to Ponder:
Are you part of the Sandwich Generation?
How is your balancing act between the two?
How are you dealing with your aging parents?
Are you able to have the tough discussions with your parents?
Are they approachable?
Sometimes it is best to be informed before having the discussions.