Finding A Balance Between Conflicting Responsibilities:Work And Caring For Aging Parents

Originally published in “Living in Balance” Magazine

Trying to manage the care of aging parents or a disabled family member, while trying to meet other work and family responsibilities is a challenge. One that faces a rapidly growing segment of our population. As the huge demographic "bubble" in our population-the 76 million baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 grow older, so do their parents.

According to the U.S census bureau, a baby boomer turns 55 every 7 seconds for the next 20 years. Their parents are living longer than any generation in history. In fact the fastest growing age group in our society is not all those babies we see in strollers-it’s those over 85.

While longevity is something we all hope for ourselves and our loved ones, it can be a mixed blessing. While new medications, technology and surgical procedures have prolonged our lives, for many it means needing assistance from others to get through each day. Help with things like bathing dressing, mobility,