In Canada, some relief for the sandwich generation in sight
April 8, 2011
Members of the sandwich generation – family caregivers who are raising children while looking after aging parents – are found in many countries around the globe. In Canada, The New Democrats Party has finally decided to try and assist these overburdened individuals, according to The National Post.
In Winnipeg, party leader Jack Layton announced that the NDP would unroll a $1.3 billion initiative to aid the sandwich generation if elected. This would consist of improving employment policies for maternity leave and provide funds in order to help families renovate their homes for older adults.
One valuable addition that can make a house more age-friendly is a senior alert system. Medical alert systems can enable seniors to instantly send a medical alert to a call center if they require immediate assistance.
“Caring for our parents and raising the next generation are the most important things we’ll ever do as families,” said Layton, according to the news provider. “If elected prime minister, I’ll put forward practical first steps that will give families a break.”
A survey conducted by the Canadian Institute for Health Information found that one in six caregivers suffer from depression, anxiety or anger because of their responsibilities, according to Canada.com[1].
