Strategies for Success in the London Sandwich Generation Dilemma

Being part of the sandwich generation in London can be difficult. Not only have you got yourself and your career to consider (not to mention your own bills and lifestyle), but you also have children and ageing parents to support. It can be really hard to cope.

What is the London Sandwich Generation?

The sandwich generation describes middle-aged parents with children that live with them but who also have ageing parents who need support. Usually, they are between 40 and 59 years old, but this can vary a little. It can be even harder to be a part of the sandwich generation in London, as London prices are steeper than the rest of the country, making it even more difficult to provide financial support to your loved ones.

The dilemma is real, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get through it. Here, you’ll find effective strategies for success to help you support both your kids and ageing parents while living in London.

Consider Finding Extra Help

It’s not a failure to admit to yourself and your loved ones you need some help – it’s hard to be a working parent with an ageing parent who requires support, after all. Fortunately, there’s a lot of help out there. You could go down the route of hiring caregivers who can check in on your ageing parent. If your parent needs more support, a care home like Signature at Reigate Grange Care Home can be a massive help. With a luxury care home like this one, your ageing parent gets a beautiful place to live filled with a range of activities, all overseen by genuinely caring staff. 

You might also want additional help with childcare, whether your little one is two years old or a teenager. Getting a childminder is an option, as is paying for daycare when you need it. That will mean you have more time to manage your other responsibilities, whether working or visiting your ageing parent. 

Become More Efficient with Your Time

One of the biggest dilemmas people in the London sandwich generation have is a lack of time. Where does it all go? That’s why you need to be more efficient with your time by planning your days in advance and always running to a specific schedule. Mapping out your day hour by hour can help with this, and there are some useful personal time management apps to help you manage. The more time you have, the more support you can give your kids and parents. 

Move Closer to Your Family

Moving home isn’t a decision to take lightly, but it should be considered if you struggle to juggle raising a family and looking after an ageing parent. If your parents live on the other side of London, it might be better to move closer to them or suggest that they move closer to you. By being nearer to your loved ones, you’ll find caring for them much easier, as you won’t spend as much time in your car or on public transport. 

You can manage being in the London sandwich generation – it just takes a little more effort and asking for help where necessary. Remember to look after yourself sometimes, too, as you deserve peace when you can find it.