The sandwich generation is growing and so are its responsibilities

Across the U.S., millions of middle-aged adults struggle with the dual responsibilities of financially supporting children and caring for aging parents. In fact, a 2013 Pew Research report found that 33 percent of baby boomers and 42 percent of Generation Xers are now members of what is commonly being called “the sandwich generation” (cnbc.com/2014/06/14/kids-parents-sandwich-generation-savers-pressed-for-time; CNBC June 14, 2014).

The meteoric rise of the sandwich generation is a byproduct of two powerful trends: women giving birth later in life and the increasing longevity of the U.S. population. When combined with a growing number of young adults living with their parents, it’s easy to see why so many middle-aged Americans are concerned about the future.