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Role Reversal

Media Post Publications, 10/21/09

Abstract:

According to a recent study by Communispace, the recession has added considerable stress to this already overburdened population known as "the sandwich generation," baby boomers who support kids, parents, relatives and themselves at the same time. However, the study finds that these people are not stressed because they're caring for kids and parents, it's because they're caring for parents and in-laws, period.

A significant finding is that this caretaker segment is more of a "situation" than a generation. It includes people ranging from their mid-30s to 60 and over who will sacrifice more for their parents, even if it's at the expense of their children:

• 58% said they'd give a spare bedroom to an aging parent over their young adult child
• 65% said they'd move in with an ailing parent, even if it meant a longer commute and new environment (school, friends, etc.) for their child or children
• 77% would adapt the things they'd purchase to accommodate parents; for example, when buying a new car they'd consider buying one with a larger trunk (to hold a parent's wheel chair or walker), rather than one that is comfortable or gets good gas mileage
  

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