Sep 15,2025
“I used to think multitasking meant making dinner while folding laundry and helping with homework,” laughs Jenna, a 42-year-old working mom of two. “Now it means coordinating my daughter’s soccer schedule, managing work deadlines, and making sure my mom makes it to her neurology appointment-sometimes all in the same day.”
Jenna is part of a growing group of Americans known as the sandwich generation: caregivers who are raising children while also caring for aging parents. For her, the shift happened gradually. After her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis two years ago, simple forgetfulness turned into safety concerns, and Jenna found herself managing medication, cooking, and daily routines-on top of everything else.
“I love my mom deeply, but I didn’t realize how emotionally draining it would be to watch her change and how isolating caregiving could feel.”
Jenna’s breaking point came when she missed an important work meeting because her mom wandered off during what was supposed to be a quick trip to the grocery store. “I realized I couldn’t keep juggling everything alone. I needed help, but I didn’t know where to start or who to trust.”
That’s when a friend recommended Elder-Well® Adult Day Program.
“When I walked into Elder-Well, I felt like someone finally saw me, not just as a caregiver, but as a person,” Jenna recalls. “They didn’t just ask about my mom’s needs; they asked about mine.”
Elder-Well offered Jenna what she needed most: trustworthy respite care. A few days a week, her mom spent the day at the center, enjoying social activities, music, and meals in a safe, supportive environment. This gave Jenna time to attend work meetings, run errands, and sometimes just breathe.
But it didn’t stop there.
“They connected me with support groups, gave me information about long-term care planning, and helped me explore memory care options for the future. It wasn’t just about today, it was about helping me plan for tomorrow, too.”
For sandwich generation caregivers like Jenna, the hardest part isn’t just the time-it’s the emotional weight. The guilt of not being able to do it all. The fear of what comes next. The loneliness of trying to be everything to everyone.
Elder-Well became Jenna’s safety net.
“Knowing my mom is somewhere she’s respected and engaged-it’s changed everything. And I’m a better mom, a better daughter, and honestly, a better version of myself because of it.”
As part of Elder-Well’s September Initiative, “The Balancing Act: Caring for Your Past and Your Future,” we’re honoring caregivers like Jenna who are navigating the delicate space between raising children and supporting aging parents.
If you see yourself in her story, know this:
💛 You are not alone
💛 You are not failing
💛 And you don’t have to do it all yourself
Let Elder-Well be your partner in this balancing act-offering respite, resources, and reassurance as you care for both generations with love and resilience.
📞 Contact your local Elder-Well® today to schedule a tour and discover how we can support your caregiving journey-every step of the way.
Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding our services or to schedule a visit.