Demographics of the sandwich generation by race and ethnicity in the United States

The Sandwich Generation comprises of people who simultaneously care for their children and the elderly parents. While current studies have focused on this group in general, our study splits the sandwich generation by race and ethnicity to focus on differential economic, social, and cultural differences among the group. Based on limited data, we find that human capital attainment, labor market status, family structure, and incomes differ significantly among different races. Additionally, beliefs, culture and social norms among the different races play important roles in the extent and nature of care giving to the elderly. Since the U.S. is transitioning into a diversified society, this multicultural approach is necessary to understand and to accommodate the various needs of the sandwich generation.

Research highlights► The sandwich generation comprises of people who simultaneously care for their children and the elderly parents. ► This study focuses on the demographics of the sandwich generation by race and ethnicity. ► The social, cultural, and economic backgrounds of the caregivers are highly diversified. ► A multicultural approach is necessary to understand the problems facing the sandwich generation.