The Sandwich Generation: what it is, how to know if you’re in it, and how to cope

For many Australians in their 40s, 50s and 60s, life today looks very different to the retirement plans they imagined years ago.We’re living longer. Our parents are living longer. And our children are taking longer to reach full financial independence.

The result? A growing number of people are becoming part of what’s known as the Sandwich Generation - those who are simultaneously supporting aging parents while still helping adult children… all while trying to stay on track for their own retirement.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not doing anything wrong, this is a demographic shift happening across Australia, especially in lifestyle-focused areas like the Hills District.

But how do you know if you’re officially part of this generation?

Are you part of the Sandwich Generation? Take this 5-question quiz

Answer Yes or No to each question:

Q1. Do you have at least one living parent who relies on you for support?

This could be financial help, transport, appointments, daily care, or navigating aged care options.

Q2. Do you have children (teens or adult children) who still rely on you financially or emotionally?

This could include help with rent, university costs, living at home, childcare for your grandchildren, or support during early career stages.

Q3. Are you currently contributing financially to more than one household or family member?

E.g., aged care fees, adult children’s expenses, medical or living costs for parents.

Q4. Do you feel pressure to balance your own retirement savings with supporting others?

If you’ve ever delayed retirement contributions or investment decisions to help the family, this is a key sign.

Q5. Do you often feel “stretched” - emotionally, financially or with time, between two generations?

This includes juggling appointments, emergencies, caregiving, or financial responsibilities from different directions.

Your Results:

• 4–5 Yes answers: You are definitely part of the Sandwich Generation.

• 2–3 Yes answers: You’re likely experiencing many Sandwich Generation pressures.

• 0–1 Yes answers: You may not be in the thick of it yet, but life changes could shift you there.

Key Challenges the Sandwich Generation faces (and how to cope)

1. Financial Pressure from Two Directions

Supporting kids and parents can heavily impact your ability to save for retirement.

Strategies:

• Create clear boundaries around financial support.

• Review your retirement savings and contribution strategy annually.

• Separate “temporary help” from long-term obligations so you don’t accidentally erode your future security.

2. The Emotional Load

Caring for aging parents while still parenting your children, even adult ones, is draining.

Strategies:

• Share caregiving responsibilities where possible.

• Access community services for parents earlier rather than later.

• Make time for your own health and wellbeing (non-negotiable).

3. Navigating Aged Care Options Without a Roadmap

Many people don’t understand aged care costs or entitlements until they’re in crisis mode.

Strategies:

• Get guidance early - aged care planning is complex but manageable with support.

• Review your parent’s assets, income and care needs before decisions become urgent.

4. Adult Children Taking Longer to Become Independent

Housing affordability, cost-of-living pressures and career changes mean many children need extended support.

Strategies:

• Discuss expectations openly - how long support will last, and what it covers.

• Consider structured support that doesn’t sabotage your own retirement goals.

• Encourage financial education to build long-term independence.

5. Protecting Your Own Retirement

This is often the first thing sacrificed - and the last thing that should be.

Strategies:

• Prioritise your super contributions.

• Build or rebalance your investment portfolio to support long-term income needs.

• Consider insurance options to protect your earning ability and assets.

You don’t have to navigate this alone

The Sandwich Generation isn’t a trend, it’s a reality for many families in the Hills District. And while the balancing act can feel overwhelming, the right strategy can turn pressure into confidence.

At Investwisely, we help pre-retirees and retirees:

• Manage competing financial demands

• Plan aged care pathways Build supportive income strategies

• Protect their retirement lifestyle

• Make decisions that support the whole family - without sacrificing their own future

If you’d like support navigating your own Sandwich Generation challenges, our team is here to help you make clear, confident decisions. Call us today for an obligation free chat 02 9634 6698 or email enquiry@investwisely.au