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Women in the Sandwich Generation at Risk: The Caregiving Crisis

The latest Family Health Index™ report released by Cleo, a leading family care platform, sheds light on the increasingly precarious situation faced by women in the workforce, particularly those in their 40s and 50s. The findings indicate that a staggering 64% of working women in the sandwich generation are nearing a breaking point, burdened by mental health strains, rising healthcare expenses, and productivity losses.

Understanding the Sandwich Generation

The sandwich generation refers to those who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents and raising their children, creating a unique set of pressures. According to Cleo's 2026 report, 46% of women aged 40-54 exhibit signs of high burnout risk, which is particularly concerning as these women typically hold significant roles within their organizations. It is crucial to recognize that this heightened stress is not merely an individual concern; it poses broader implications for workforce stability, talent retention, and healthcare costs.

Rising Burnout Rates

The recent data, based on over 19,200 assessments, reveals concerning statistics: nearly half of these women report a significant decline in self-care and overall health, while more than 50% screened positive for depression and anxiety. The report emphasizes that caregiving, such as managing neurodivergent children or navigating perimenopause, is not just a side task—it's often akin to taking on an additional full-time role.

Cleo's CEO, Dr. Madhavi Vemireddy, stresses the urgency of addressing the caregiving strain. She notes, "Caregiving strain is no longer invisible, and neither are its health consequences." By identifying at-risk individuals early and offering tailored support, organizations can mitigate adverse health impacts and bolster workforce resilience.

Cost Implications of Caregiving Strain

The financial toll of caregiving-related burnout is substantial. Individuals at high risk incur between $600 to $1,000 in medical expenses on a monthly basis, significantly impacting healthcare resources. The ongoing strain contributes to intensified healthcare utilization, which can be particularly detrimental to women during their peak earning years.

Impacts on Women and Their Careers

Cleo's Family Health Index highlights caregiving challenges as a women's health issue with ripple effects on career progression and skills retention in the workforce. When organizations invest in caregiving support, they not only promote individual health but also enhance productivity, reduce unplanned absences, and improve overall employee satisfaction. The report denotes several benefits — including stronger health outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and increased loyalty among employees who bear heavy caregiving responsibilities.

The Intersection of Caregiving and Menopause

An important facet of the report underscores the intersectionality of caregiving and menopause. Women in this demographic face intensified stress, sleep disruptions, and unaddressed health concerns. Longitudinal studies show that those managing caregiving alongside menopause have nearly double the likelihood of experiencing severe symptoms often left unchecked. Liz Powell, founder of G2G Consulting, describes the phenomenon: "When they crash, the fallout is huge—families fracture, unnecessary healthcare claims increase, and businesses lose talent."

Wider Implications of Caregiver Burnout

The impacts of caregiver burnout extend beyond personal health, leading to increased obesity, hypertension, and early retirement. The psychological and physical ramifications underscore the necessity for systemic changes within organizations to offer robust support to caregivers.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The Family Health Index™ serves not only as a litmus test for the current state of caregivers but also as a vital tool for organizations to adapt their strategies to better support these individuals. As the report concludes, investing in women caregivers is not just a moral obligation; it is also a financially prudent strategy for sustaining a resilient and capable workforce in an increasingly complex world. With Cleo embracing its mission, companies are challenged to take proactive steps towards supporting the women who form the backbone of the caregiving ecosystem.