In New Study, 88% Say Caregiving for Aging Parents Brings Purpose and Fulfillment, Despite the Stress
Many parents are part of the sandwich generation, meaning they are busy caring for their aging parents while also caring for their own children and handling everyday responsibilities. According to a recent study by Talker Research, commissioned by Comfort Keepers, which polled 2,000 sandwich-generation adults who have children 18 or under living at home and also care for an aging parent, 88% said caregiving has given them a life-changing reset with their aging loved one.
The survey found that everyday interactions, including talking (72%), sharing meals (68%), and helping with daily care (67%), are among the most meaningful sources of connection for adult children and their aging parents. The study was conducted as part of Comfort Keepers’ annual National Day of Joy initiative. The in-home care provider established the National Day of Joy in 2019. Comfort Keepers hope to encourage more people to find joy in everyday moments and to highlight the importance of joy in maintaining physical and mental health. The National Day of Joy is celebrated on the last Wednesday of June. This year, the date is June 24.
Being a Parent Who Cares for an Aging Parent Isn’t Without Challenges
92% respondents reported that caring for an aging loved one brings both joy and emotional strain. According to the study, 87% of caregivers are also juggling careers alongside their responsibilities at home, and 55% struggle to keep up with their daily responsibilities. 69% of adult children reported needing additional support in their caregiving role. The majority of respondents said having greater access to respite or in-home care would make a meaningful positive difference. As Sherri Snelling, a gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers, explains, the sandwich generation is balancing parenting, high-stress jobs, and caregiving simultaneously, which can significantly increase burnout.
“This research highlights both sides of that reality: the emotional strain caregivers feel, yet the deep sense of purpose and accomplishment that often comes with showing up for family. Having the ability to get a respite break and having in-home support from a professional caregiver are so critical to protecting the sandwich generation’s well-being and helping families thrive,” she said.
Many Caregiver Adults Are Making Significant Sacrifices to Meet Their Aging Parents’ Needs
The study findings revealed that many caregivers are making significant sacrifices to care for an aging parent. 42% have moved to be closer to their aging parent and 40% have missed out on travel. Meanwhile, 31% have given up a hobby to be more present with their family. Despite the demands of their caregiver responsibilities, most caregivers agree that it’s worth it. 73% say they wouldn’t choose to do things differently. And amid the exhaustion, sandwich-generation respondents said that caregiving makes them feel purposeful (58%), proud (56%), and fulfilled (48%). And 87% agreed that caring for an aging parent has been one of the most satisfying and fulfilling roles in their lives.
“Caregiving is often talked about through the lens of sacrifice, but these findings show it can also be a powerful source of joy, healing, and renewed connection across generations,” Joni Magnus-Ramsey, chief happiness officer for Comfort Keepers, shared.
She continued, “Our research shows that while many family caregivers are carrying heavy responsibilities, they’re also experiencing meaningful moments with senior loved ones that can strengthen relationships in lasting ways. As we recognize the eighth annual National Day of Joy, it’s an important reminder that even in challenging seasons, joy is still found in caring for others.”
“This research highlights both sides of that reality: the emotional strain caregivers feel, yet the deep sense of purpose and accomplishment that often comes with showing up for family. Having the ability to get a respite break and having in-home support from a professional caregiver are so critical to protecting the sandwich generation’s well-being and helping families thrive.”
Sherri Snelling, gerontologist
Look for and Remember Moments of Joy
If you’re a busy parent who is also caring for an aging parent or loved one, it’s extra important to prioritize your emotional and physical well-being. The National Day of Joy is a good reminder of how important it is to look for small moments of joy in your everyday life. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to do it all alone. Caregiving while being a parent is hard work. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) outlines tips for how caregivers can take good care of themselves.
The NIA explains that caregivers can benefit from becoming more comfortable asking for and accepting help from family and friends. And if you need someone to talk to, don’t be afraid to reach out to a trusted family member or friend, or a mental health professional. The NIA also recommends caregivers prioritize exercise, sleep, and healthy eating habits. By taking care of your physical and mental health, you’ll be better able to care for yourself and your family.
