A new study from UCL has shed light on the challenges faced by “sandwich carers”—those juggling the responsibilities of caring for both children and elderly family members.
This research, which appeared in the journal Public Health, analyzed data from roughly 2,000 sandwich carers alongside an equal number of non-carers over an eleven-year span, from 2009 to 2020.
The analysis was part of the UK Household Longitudinal Study, and the results are revealing.
Understanding Sandwich Carers
Sandwich carers, a growing demographic, are typically responsible for supporting older relatives while also nurturing children under the age of 16.
The rise in these caregivers is linked to longer life expectancies and a trend of older women becoming mothers.
Currently, around 1.3 million people in the UK find themselves in this demanding position.
The researchers set out to explore the long-term impacts of this caregiving duality on health, aiming to bridge an important gap in understanding.
They tracked the wellbeing of both sandwich carers and their non-caring counterparts, focusing on the gradual progression into this complex role over nine years.
By employing statistical models, the team was able to analyze and predict health changes between these two groups.
Impact on Health
Participants identifying as sandwich carers averaged 36.8 years old, with most in the 30 to 49 age bracket—those who are most likely to take on this dual caregiving burden.
The study scrutinized how entering into sandwich caregiving affected health outcomes, factoring in hours of care provided and how gender played a role in health changes.
To evaluate mental health, the research utilized the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), which included queries about concentration, sleep issues, and stress levels.
Conversely, physical health was assessed through a Physical Component Summary (PCS) that gauged general health status, mobility, bodily pain, and daily activity limitations linked to physical ailments.
Results revealed that sandwich carers, especially those dedicating over 20 hours a week to caregiving, faced a marked decline in mental wellness compared to those not engaged in caregiving.
This deterioration in mental health persisted over a significant period.
Additionally, those involved in intensive caregiving reported a notable decline in their physical health as they transitioned into their roles as sandwich carers.
Need for Support
The lead researcher underscored the urgent mental and physical health challenges confronting sandwich carers, urging society to acknowledge their plight.
The research team calls for targeted support specifically designed for this expanding group, aiming to promote their health and overall well-being.
In response to their findings, the researchers highlighted the critical need for society to recognize and support these caregivers.
They advocated for the development of specialized support services, such as respite care and flexible work options, as essential components for sustaining the health and resilience of those engaged in intensive caregiving.
Source: ScienceDaily