The Sandwich Generation, as defined by Wikipedia, is a generation of people who care for their aging parents while also supporting their children. Many Americans are finding themselves in this growing generation and struggle with the emotional, financial and time constraints that may arise. Some adults give up careers or the chance for forward advancement in order to care for their families. Others fight the financial burdens of their children’s education and their parent’s rising medical costs.
A short documentary titled “The Sandwich Generation” was released in 2008 and followed a family who moved 3000 miles to take care of their aging father with dementia.
You can rent the entire film on Vimeo. The Sandwich Generation Film is Available Here.
Tips on Eldercare:
- Every situation and relationship is different. What works for one family may not be appropriate for another.
- Learn about Medicare and Medicaid. Insurance Care Associates are experts in this area. We can help.
- Set Boundaries. You can’t help everyone and still take care of yourself. Identify others individuals and programs who can assist you.
- Watch out for scams. Unfortunately, your parents are now a very easy target for people who may want to take advantage.
- Plan for your future now. Consider purchasing Long Term Care Insurance for yourself now so that your loved ones will be protected.
Oklahoma Resources for Eldercare
Adult Day Services is a community-based program designed to meet the needs of functionally impaired older persons, generally those aged 60 and over, through an individualized plan of care. The program assists participants to remain in the community, enabling families and other caregivers to continue caring for an impaired member at home.
The ADvantage Program provides Medicaid services to help people stay at home instead of going to a nursing home. The program assists frail elders and adults who have physical disabilities.
Legal Services offers legal referrals and information to individuals who are 60 or older. The Legal Services Developer for Aging Services also provides assistance about elder rights, end-of-life issues, guardianship and grandparents raising grandchildren legal rights.
RX for Oklahoma is a service which helps Oklahomans access prescription assistance programs provided by pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. It is operated by contractors funded by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.
Respite care is a temporary break from long and arduous caregiving duties. The Administration for Community Living /U.S. Administration on Aging provided grant funding for family caregivers of children or adults with special needs to receive respite services.
The Oklahoma Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) offers low-income older citizens an opportunity to purchase fresh, locally-grown fruits, vegetables and herbs from certified farmers.
