Welcome to the Sandwich Generation: We Didn’t Ask for This DLC

Gen X didn’t get a manual. We got a house key, a deadline, and a lifetime subscription to “figure it out.” Then adulthood showed up like: congrats, you’re now the caregiver, the parent, the employee, and the emotional support human. Also, your back hurts.

I’m a Gen X mom and grandma who spent years caring for my mom after her dementia diagnosis. I loved her. I was exhausted. I laughed so I wouldn’t cry. Sometimes I cried anyway. If you’re in this season—past or present—this is your safe space. No perfection. No fake positivity. Just real talk, practical help, and occasional snark.

Here’s what I need you to hear: you’re not failing. Dementia is relentless. Caregiving isn’t a personality flaw—it’s a marathon with surprise obstacles and no water stations.

Start here if you need support that’s actually useful:

• Alzheimer’s Association (education, helpline, support groups)

• Your local Area Agency on Aging (benefits, respite, caregiver programs)

• Communication basics: short sentences, calm tone, one step at a time

Real talk takeaway: if your “self-care” is eating chips in the car in silence, that still counts.

Hashtags: #SandwichGeneration #GenXCaregiver #DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #RealTalk #CaregiverLife #YouAreNotAlone #GriefAndLove