Help for the “Sandwich Generation”

When those we love need our care, we give it. One in eight Americans are caring for children as well as for aging parents.

If you’re part of “the sandwich generation,” you know there can be stress, hundreds of questions and that “how do you manage all this” feeling.

You can – because there’s help. That’s the insight Avera@Home Regional Director of Patient Services Jill Cragoe and her team share every day with people who need assistance with care for parents.

“We make communication our priority and tailor every situation to the needs of the patient and their family,” Cragoe said.

Understanding Care Services You Can Get at Home

Many families call after a fall or an illness or a parent’s physician recommends additional support. While most people have heard of in-home care, they might not realize the full variety of services that can help people remain at home safely and with comfort.

“We often have engaged family members who are trying to ‘do it all’ and realize they face burnout or things beyond their ability,” Cragoe said. “We also help families who live out of the area who have a parent living alone.”

She said others may have no family or support. In each case, home-care professionals assess the need, begin a dialogue and determine patient goals.

“Together we find the best avenue to make those goals reality,” she said.

Helping Any Needs, Big or Small

Goals vary widely. It may be as simple as adding some medical equipment in the home, or help with meal preparation. Others might need help with wound management or require IV antibiotics in their home. Some individuals may need education about their medications and diagnosis.

Cragoe says the home is the ideal environment for care.

“All of us would point to our homes as the place where our comfort level is highest, and that’s where we provide our services,” she said. Avera@Home can assess the needs of patients and tailor the best fit for both individual and family. 

“We make recommendations, but again, it’s a conversation,” Cragoe said. “We listen to what is needed and focus on the goals.”

Support for Families and Loved Ones across a System

Having an integrated health system’s umbrella allows families to avoid stress when a different level of care is needed. There are many locations for home care support. In all cases, Cragoe reminds families who find themselves in caregiving routines to realize: they are not alone.

“Our professionals can support you and assist in facilitating the difficult conversations that sometimes go with this part of life,” she said.

She said planning ahead is highly beneficial, but not always possible.