The Sandwich Generation

As members of the “sandwich generation,” Boomers often end up supporting elderly parents, boomerang children, and grandchildren simultaneously. Not surprisingly, the economic slump has prompted more extended family cohabitation. A recent AARP survey found that the number of multigenerational households grew from 5 million in 2000 to 6.2 million in 2008, and nearly a quarter of all Boomers now expect their parents or in-laws to move in with them. “Right now 11 percent of people 50+ are living either with their older parents or with their children or grandchildren,” says Elinor Ginzler, director of AARP’s Livable Communities Initiative.