Sandwich Generation: How Are You?

“The family – that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor, in our inmost hearts, ever quite wish to” – Dodie Smith

2 min read

Sandwich Generation: How Are You?

“The family – that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor, in our inmost hearts, ever quite wish to” – Dodie Smith

2 min read

The sandwich generation (middle-aged individuals supporting both aging parents and growing children) are certainly used to challenges and putting other people’s needs before their own. However, cost-of-living challenges look set to heap further pressure on this group which makes it vitally important they seek advice before taking any rash decisions which could sacrifice their financial futures.

Stiff upper lip

Research¹ suggests that, although many over-45-year-olds have found themselves facing potential financial vulnerability, they tend to keep this firmly to themselves. In total, seven out of ten respondents had personally experienced such a situation, but few said they had been willing to ask for help.

Double whammy

Other analysis² shows the potential for such problems is mounting. This is because people who provide support to adult loved ones will typically be hit twice by the cost-of-living crisis; not only will they find their own household bills rising but also those of the people they are supporting financially. This is particularly true for people in their early 40s who are most likely to be helping family members with the cost of monthly essentials.

Investors ponder contributions

There is also evidence that rising cost pressures are now resulting in people cutting back on their long-term savings commitments, with recent research³ showing one in four investors halting contributions to pensions and other savings and investment vehicles. Depending on your circumstances, for many investors, it may be more important than ever to continue to put long-term savings in the stock market. Over the longer term, investing in equities can be regarded as an effective way to keep pace with inflation.

We can help

Although it can seem unnatural for members of the sandwich generation to consider their own needs, we are here to listen, support and provide advice when you need it. So if you do need to talk, get in touch today and we’ll do our best to help keep your finances firmly on track. can weigh up your options.

Send us an e-mail to info@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84.

¹Just Group, 2022

²Legal & General, 2022

³interactive investor, 2022