Multi-generational Home Life
​The middle-age adult has been primed since childhood to believe that this is the time for the American dream of retirement, relaxation and self-indulgence (Derigne & Ferrante, 2012). Generally faced with their own end of life issues, and the possibility of empty-nest syndrome, this adult is now facing a reality of having both the grown children and the elderly parents experiencing difficulties in remaining independent. They are moving in with too many life crises occurring within the same timeframe and with a degree of dependence (Derigne & Ferrante, 2012).
​Many different disciplines of psychology must come together at this time of crises and offer solutions for this sandwiched generation (MCW Libraries Clinical Resources, n.d.). Psychological research has inspired research in the areas of caregiver well-being and social support. Applied research is identifying specific caregiver interventions through cognitive behavioral therapy and culturally appropriate multi-component interventions. These interventions are decreasing feelings of burden and depression and increasing well-being, ability and knowledge of care recipient symptoms and delaying placement in nursing homes (APA). It is suggested that these possible plans of action can highlight the positive benefits and downplay the negative situations which will help the aged experiences respect and dignity and help the middle aged with feelings, thoughts and demanding aspects of life, while bringing information to youth of the wealth of benefits they can receive from both generations (Trenholm & Jensen, 2008).
The Sandwich Generation Impact