While the first part of this article explored the external pressures on the sandwich generation - the scheduling conflicts, the shifting family dynamics, and the demands of being everywhere at once - part two turns inward. What does all this mean for your emotional health? And most importantly, how can you find strategies and supports to make the load feel lighter?

The Emotional Toll of Caring for Multiple Generations at Once

If you feel like you're drowning some days, that's completely understandable. The constant pull in different directions—toward your children, toward your parents, toward work—would overwhelm anyone.

The numbers back up what you're feeling. According to Statistics Canada, "86 percent of sandwich caregiver respondents had experienced at least one negative impact on their wellbeing due to their caregiving responsibilities." This is significantly higher than those caring only for adults (74%) or only for children (62%).

As Dana Wray, a senior analyst at Statistics Canada and author of the sandwich caregiving report, explains: "What the data really shows is that this group of caregivers is uniquely burdened compared to other caregivers, because they're being pulled in each direction."

Beyond the exhaustion, anxiety, and overwhelm that sandwich caregivers frequently report, other complex emotions surface:

Role reversal challenges

Watching your parents need help can create an uncomfortable dynamic. You might find yourself suggesting they shouldn't drive at night or need help managing medications, while they insist they're "perfectly fine." You can influence decisions but not make them for your parents; they're still independent adults. This resistance to shifting roles can create ongoing tension.

Anticipatory grief

You're mourning losses that haven't fully happened yet. Watching your parent's independence slip away piece by piece can bring waves of sadness. They're still here, but not quite themselves. And your parents feel it, too—grieving their own lost independence and familiar routines.

The guilt-anger cycle

Your mom calls for the third time today about something minor. You feel obligated to help but resentful that she won't accept other support. She maintains her "independence" by leaning heavily on you instead of accepting formal care. The guilt about feeling angry makes everything worse.

The comparison trap

Social media shows everyone else seemingly handling life perfectly. Other people's parents look healthier, their kids more successful, their homes more organized. You feel like you're failing at being both a good parent and a good child.

Whatever emotions arise, just know that they are normal responses to an overwhelming situation. You’re not failing; you’re human.

Finding Your Way: Strategies for Managing the Squeeze

The squeeze won't disappear overnight, but you can find ways to make it more manageable. Here are some strategies to explore at every level:

On the individual level

You don't have to do this alone. Extending your capacity means accepting that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Look for caregiver support groups, respite care services, or even online communities where you can share experiences and resources with others who understand.

On the family level

Engaging reluctant parents about care often requires creative (re)framing. Instead of saying, "Is it time to sign you up for home care?" try "What if someone came to play cards with you once a week?" This shifts the conversation from focusing on what they can't do to exploring what they might enjoy doing.

Don't carry the burden alone if you have siblings. Even those living far away can contribute meaningfully—perhaps they handle financial management, research care options, make regular video calls with parents, or take over during scheduled visits so you can have a break. Honest communication about everyone's capacity and contributions can prevent resentment from building.

At home, constant pivoting and reorganization is essential. As Benembarek notes, "If nothing else, caregiving requires adaptability. That goes double for sandwich caregivers... for whom constant acts of triaging, prioritizing and juggling are the norm." Keep lines of communication open with your spouse and children about shifting responsibilities, and ask for help, flexibility, and grace as needed.

Don't forget practical supports like the Canada Caregiver Credit, which is designed for those caring for dependent family members.

📝 Explore: Family and Caregiving Benefits - Government of Canada

On the workplace level

Have an honest conversation with your employer about your caregiving responsibilities. Many workplaces offer accommodations you might not know about, such as flexible hours, remote work options, or unpaid leave arrangements. You won't know what's possible until you ask.

On the community level

Connect with local organizations and resources. Social prescribers can also help you navigate the maze of caregiving. As Barbara Mitchell, professor of gerontology at Simon Fraser University, explains: "[Social prescribing is] almost like a one-stop shop... I would reach out to one of these social prescribers and they would help me set up programs like respite care and other ideas for helping me manage my caregiving stress."

📝 Explore: Social Prescribing via The Manitoba Association of Senior Communities

The goal at every level remains the same: maintaining choice and control for both you and your parent(s) while creating sustainable caregiving arrangements.

Moving Forward, Together

If you've made it this far, you've likely recognized yourself in these pages. You're not alone—millions of Canadians are navigating these very same challenges.

As you explore your options, remember that help comes in many forms. Care Possible offers one path forward for Manitobans.

We’re a platform that connects families with flexible, preference-based care options. With no upfront costs or obligations, it's designed to give you choice and control, allowing you to scale care up or down as your needs change.

Whether you need someone to play cards with your mom once a week or more comprehensive support, having options can extend your capacity and create breathing room in your packed schedule.

Sandwich caregiving is a journey, not a destination. Some days will be harder than others. But with the right support and resources, you can find ways to honour your commitments to both generations while still preserving something for yourself.

About Care Possible

Care Possible is a non-profit social enterprise by Manitoba Possible, dedicated to providing affordable, flexible, and preference-based in-home and respite care services. We support seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families using self and family-managed care in Winnipeg. Our mission is to ensure that every Manitoban who accesses care has an excellent experience.

Navigating the Sandwich Generation Part 2: The Emotional & Practical Roadmap