Abstract:

The extent of "sandwiched" families & the impact of dependency & proximity to task assistance provided to parent(s) are investigated using 1991 mail survey data from random samples of respondents, ages 40-65, in MI, ID, OR, & UT (total N = 1,466). Analysis indicates that 15% are sandwiched between needs of aging parents & financially dependent children. Respondents are much more likely to be providing assistance to mothers than fathers. Parents are most likely to live near, but not necessarily with, the respondent. Spouses & partners' parents, however, are likely to live farther away. Task assistance provided most often to aging parent(s) includes help with transportation & shopping; financial assistance is reported least often. Income of respondent & dependency & proximity of parents are significantly related to providing assistance to parents.