Families can ease the burden of one person worrying about the needs of her ageing parents and young children, but it requires uncomfortable conversations, says the writer.
THERE is a generation of South Africans quietly trying to keep two ends of the family together, often while wondering how much longer they can keep going themselves.
On one side are children who need school fees, transport, food, emotional support and help getting started in adulthood. On the other are ageing parents who may need assistance with groceries, medical appointments, medication, household expenses or simply the reassurance that someone is checking in.
'Sandwich generation'
In the middle is the so-called "sandwich generation", and many are exhausted.
