The Sandwich Generation: Navigating the Hidden Strain on Women

For many women between the ages of 34 and 59, life often feels like a delicate balancing act. They're raising children, caring for ageing parents, and managing the complex physical and emotional shifts that come with menopause. These women, often referred to as the ‘sandwich generation’, are sandwiched between the pressures of supporting younger and older family members, all while navigating their own personal challenges. The strain on their mental, physical, and financial wellbeing is often hidden, but it’s real - and it’s significant.

Care and the Gender Disparity

While caring responsibilities affect both men and women, women disproportionately shoulder the burden. According to Carers UK, nearly 60% of carers in the UK are women. For those in the sandwich generation, this often means taking on the lion’s share of responsibilities - from managing elderly parents healthcare needs to handling everyday household tasks. These women don’t just take on the physical care of their loved ones, but they also manage the emotional weight of those responsibilities, all while balancing the financial and logistical challenges caring brings. It’s a role that leaves little time for self-care, hobbies, or career growth.

The Impact on Careers and Financial Stability

A major challenge for many women in this situation is the impact caring has on their careers. Many find themselves having to reduce their hours, take breaks from their careers, or even leave the workforce entirely to provide full-time care. The financial consequences are far reaching, affecting not only their income but also their retirement savings and career progression.

Research from Carers UK reveals the shocking statistic that one in four women who leave their jobs to care for a loved one never return to the workforce. This can be due to a lack of flexible work options, the emotional and physical exhaustion of caring, or the challenge of balancing the demands of both roles. Beyond the loss of immediate income, there are long-term financial impacts as well. Women often miss out on pension contributions during periods of reduced or no income, which can create significant financial strain in retirement- especially when caring responsibilities for elderly parents are ongoing.

Mental and Physical Health Challenges

The pressures on women in the sandwich generation extend beyond their professional and financial lives; their mental and physical health can suffer as well. Juggling so many responsibilities often leads to stress, anxiety, and burnout, and feelings of isolation and guilt. Particularly when women feel they are unable to meet the needs of their children or their own self-care. The physical demands of caring - assisting with mobility, lifting, or helping with daily tasks - can also take a toll, leading to injuries, fatigue, and long-term health problems. On top of all this, stress and exhaustion can intensify the symptoms of menopause, making life even more challenging.

The Need for Support and Change

At Grace Consulting, we know how important it is for women in this position to receive the right support. There’s a growing need for businesses to embrace flexibility - whether it’s through remote work options, flexible hours, or simply being understanding when life gets overwhelming. Caring shouldn’t be seen as ‘women’s work’ alone; it’s a shared responsibility, and we all need to help make it manageable for everyone.

If you’re a business leader seeking ways to better support your employees or an individual feeling the weight of caring, we’re here to help. At Grace Consulting, we offer tailored advice and support to help you navigate these challenges and find the balance that works for you.

We understand this is a tough journey. If you'd like to talk about how we can support you or your business, don't hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!

---

Grace Consulting are the UK’s founding providers of expert independent advice on elderly care advice, special needs advice and neurodiversity advice. Independence and client wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. We listen, reassure and advise you on how to move forwards and find the best possible solutions for your unique life challenges.