Navigating the caregiver’s strain: psychosocial well-being among sandwich generation caregivers in India

Abstract

Background: Sandwich generation caregivers, while providing simultaneous care to two generations, face unique challenges and responsibilities. This research tried to understand the intricate aspects of this caregiving paradigm, with an emphasis on the difficulties faced by the sandwich generation in India and its impact on their psychosocial well-being. Methods: The study used the Montgomery Borgatta caregiver burden scale to measure the burden experienced by the caregivers. Furthermore, both bivariate and multivariate analyses were done to understand the effects of background factors on the burden experienced by the caregiver. Results: The findings demonstrate significant associations with demographic characteristics such as age, caste, education, income, religion, and employment status, emphasizing the multidimensional nature of the burdens. Younger caregivers experienced greater objective and demand burdens, suggesting that the caregiving challenges intensify as caregivers age. Higher education and income were associated with increased subjective demand burden, possibly due to higher expectations and greater responsibilities. Conclusions: The study results highlight the critical need for tailored support systems that identify and address the unique issues of sandwich generation caregiving. As population ageing continues to impact societies worldwide, understanding and addressing the concerns of sandwich generation caregivers is crucial for the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.