A growing number of Canadians have become “sandwiched” caregivers as they look after their children and aging parents simultaneously, according to a new Statistics Canada report.
Women were more likely to be caregivers than men, with nearly half of all caregivers falling into the 35 to 54 age range.
“This type of caregiving was most common among adults in prime working age groups, as nearly three in 10 of these caregivers [29 percent] were aged 35 to 44 years,” the report authors wrote, adding that those 45-54 years old accounted for 20 percent.
While the most typical scenario—34 percent—involved adults caring for their children and a parent with a long-term condition or disability, 8 percent were caring for their spouse and young children at the same time, the report found.
Another common arrangement was adults 55 or older caring for grandchildren and an elderly adult. Fifteen percent of older adults acting as sandwiched caregivers were looking after both their grandchildren and a parent, while 7 percent were caring for grandchildren and their spouse.
Impacts of Caregiving
Unpaid family caregivers are often under-appreciated as they shoulder the “profound” responsibility of caring for loved ones, said Claire Webster, founder of the McGill Dementia Education Program.“While their dedication is immeasurable, the toll it takes on their own well-being and livelihoods cannot be overstated,” Ms. Webster said in a statement. “Balancing caregiving duties with personal needs and obligations is a relentless juggle, often leading to burnout, stress, and isolation.”
Caregivers often lack adequate support systems and resources, she said, adding that there is a “critical need for societal recognition and policy interventions to alleviate their burdens and ensure their essential contributions are valued and sustained.”
StatCan found those with multiple caregiving responsibilities were more likely to report a toll on their health and overall well-being.
Eighty-six percent of sandwich caregivers surveyed in 2022 reported at least one negative impact on their physical health and well-being, compared with 74 percent of adult-only caregivers, and 62 percent of caregivers for children.
Being tired was the top side effect associated with sandwich caregiving, coming in at 69 percent, followed by worry or anxiety at 65 percent. Half of those surveyed admitted to feeling overwhelmed by their caregiving responsibilities.
Thirty-five percent of sandwiched caregivers reported financial hardship related to their multiple caregiving responsibilities and 66 percent of non-retired caregivers said their employment or job-seeking activities were impacted.
“Sandwich caregivers were more likely than other unpaid caregivers to have adjusted their schedule, reduced their hours or given up work opportunities because of their caregiving,” StatCan said.
A 2023 poll found eight out of every 10 caregivers rated their experience as a positive one. Young caregivers in particular—those aged 15-29—described their relationship with the recipient as “strengthened” during the caregiving period.
Adults caring for a parent or in-law also rated the experience as positive, with 77 percent saying it brought them closer to the family member.
