Balancing Work and Elder Care During Parent’s Move | Britt Moves

The Juggling Act of the “Sandwich Generation”

If you’re mid-career with kids at home while also helping an elderly parent relocate, you’re part of the “sandwich generation.” It’s a heavy load - balancing job responsibilities, family life, and elder care all at once. Adding a parent’s move into the mix often feels impossible.

The truth? You don’t have to do it all alone. With smart planning, delegation, and boundaries, you can balance it all - and protect your own well-being too. Here’s how to manage balancing work, family, and elder care during a parent’s move.

Step 1: Acknowledge Your Limits

You can’t be in three places at once. Recognize what you realistically can and cannot take on. This helps avoid burnout.

Tip: Write down all tasks related to the move, then highlight which ones only you can do and which can be delegated.

Step 2: Communicate at Work

Many professionals hesitate to share caregiving responsibilities with their employer. But transparency often brings support.

• Ask about flexible scheduling or remote options.

• Use vacation or personal days strategically around the move date.

• Let colleagues know when you’ll be unavailable.

Step 3: Delegate at Home

• Involve siblings in packing, sorting, or move day.

• Give teens or college-aged kids age-appropriate tasks (packing non-fragile items, running errands).

• Ask trusted friends for help with childcare or meals.

Step 4: Use Professional Support

Senior move managers, organizers, and movers exist for a reason. Outsourcing certain tasks frees you to focus on your parent’s emotional needs.

Step 5: Protect Your Own Well-Being

The stress of balancing roles can take a toll.

• Schedule short breaks for yourself.

• Maintain sleep and nutrition.

• Seek emotional support from friends, counseling, or support groups.

Step 6: Stay Organized With Tools

Technology can help manage the chaos.

• Shared calendars for family updates.

• Spreadsheets or apps to track tasks.

• Group chats for quick decisions with siblings.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do It All Alone

Balancing work, family, and elder care during a parent’s move isn’t easy - but it is possible. By acknowledging limits, delegating, and leaning on professional support, you can help your parent transition smoothly while keeping your own life steady.

Remember: caring for your parent doesn’t mean sacrificing your own well-being. A balanced approach benefits everyone.

FAQs About Balancing Work, Family, and Elder Care

Q1: What if my job won’t allow flexibility?
Use personal time strategically, and delegate more move-related tasks to siblings or professionals.

Q2: How do I avoid burnout?
Set clear boundaries, maintain self-care routines, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Q3: Is it selfish to hire professional support instead of doing it all myself?
Not at all. Outsourcing ensures your parent gets quality care while protecting your energy for the moments that matter most.