How seniors can maintain independence and give loved ones peace of mind
Home security device helps “sandwich generation” balance numerous responsibilities They’re called the “sandwich generation” – working adults who have taken on the role of caring for an aging or ill parent while still raising their own children and pursuing a career. Membership to this group is growing every year as the Canadian population ages. In fact, according to Statistics Canada, more than 2 million Canadians, mostly women between 35 and 44 years old, are “sandwiched” between caring for their young children and aging parents at the same time. This can sometimes mean their resources, both mental and physical, are spread too thin which can also lead to worry and guilt when it comes time to leave the senior home alone. Part of the worry is for potential medical emergencies or falls that could occur since seniors are at a much greater risk of falling. According to Health Canada, every year one in three seniors will fall at least once and falls account for more than half of all injuries among Canadians 65 years and over. These were some of the concerns sandwich generation member Lisa Fazari of Richmond Hill, Ontario had as she looked for solutions to help care for her 83-year-old mother, Ursula Calderon, while also caring for her teenage daughters. Fazari’s mother’s activity level had decreased dramatically since the osteoarthritis in her legs caused her to slow down and be more cautious, yet she was adamant that giving up her independence of living alone wasn’t an option.