Those in the sandwich generation have plenty of responsibilities.
The sandwich generation.
What does this mean?
According to the recent Press-Enterprise article titled “3 tips for anyone in the sandwich generation,” the sandwich generation refers to those who must care for and support their own children and their aging parents.
Typically these individuals are in their 30s and 40s.
These individuals have a lot of responsibilities financially and a lot of demands on their time.
Often this can be hard on careers, families, and the caregivers.
Is there a way to minimize the strain?
Yes.
A good place to start is to talk about finances with your parents and your children.
Discuss budgets and set expectations.
This will also be a good time to encourage your parents to review or update their estate planning documents with an experienced estate planning attorney.
This will help your parents protect and preserve their assets.
An experienced attorney will be able to help you navigate such issues with compassion and wisdom.
Remember, it is good to ask for help.
This could mean getting a house cleaner to assist you with your own chores.
It could also mean including other families members in the caretaking responsibilities.
Perhaps your own children can assist their grandparents around the house.
Finally, do not allow feelings of guilt to creep into your life.
You have a lot of responsibilities as it is.
Take everything one day at a time.
Remember: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When making your financial, tax and estate plans, do not go it alone. Be sure to engage competent professional counsel.
Reference: (Riverside CA) Press-Enterprise (June 28, 2018) “3 tips for anyone in the sandwich generation”
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