Sign Up For More InfoWASHINGTON, DC,Nov. 14, 2006 - A recent survey shows that nearly half of women concerned about an aging relative's health said they are impacted by feelings of depression, while only 36% of women for whom an aging relative's health care is not a concern indicated feelings of depression. "Squeezed Between Children and Older Parents: A Survey of Sandwich Generation Women" is a national poll conducted by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) among women ages 35 to 54. This group is often referred to as the "Sandwich Generation" because they are caring for both their own children and their aging relatives.
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The survey further shows that only two in ten Sandwich Generation Women utilize social workers as a resource. Pat Volland, senior vice president of NYAM and director of Social Work Leadership Institute, adds, "Social workers can help these women identify community resources, navigate through Medicaid and Medicare, offer counseling and assist in coordinating a parent's care. For example, many older Americans have issues with mobility, and a social worker can help with that. According to our survey, it's not only Alzheimer's and cancer that older Americans need help with; it's the little things like keeping track of medications and getting around town."
The survey data further demonstrates the pressures that many Sandwich Generation women face:
"With the multiple challenges and demands facing women today, especially those in caregiving roles, it is not surprising to see that they are feeling stressed," said NASW executive director Dr. Elizabeth Clark. "Caring for an aging parent is a tough job that can take an emotional, financial and even physical toll on the caregiver, leading to illness or depression."
NASW and NYAM/SWLI stress that women must take care of their own mental health even as they care for others. Taking time out, asking for professional help from social workers and keeping your sense of humor are all important tips for Sandwich Generation women. For more information and tips about caregiving, or to find a social worker visit www.HelpStartsHere.org.
About the National Association of Social Workers The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with approximately 150,000 members. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.
About the New York Academy of Medicine Founded in 1847, The New York Academy of Medicine is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit institution whose mission is to enhance the health of the public. The Academy is a leading center for urban health policy and action working to enhance the health of people living in cities worldwide through research, education, advocacy, and prevention. Visit us online at www.nyam.org.
Methodology The Pursuant, Inc. poll of 1,123 respondents (margin of error +/- 3%, and larger for subsamples) was fielded August 22-27, 2006 by Knowledge Networks, using its nationwide panel, which is randomly selected via random-digit dialing (RDD) from the entire adult population and subsequently provided Internet access. For more information about this methodology, go to www.knowledgenetworks.com/ganp. Survey participants were comprised of women between the ages of 35 and 54 who have at least one parent still living, whom we deem "sandwich generation women." This study was sponsored by the National Association of Social Workers and the New York Academy of Medicine. A full report and the questionnaire can be found at link.
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Posted on 11/14/2006
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