Raising Kids While Caring for Parents: A Lifetime of Caregiving

In this episode, we’re joined by Edina, a lifelong caregiver whose story spans generations, diagnoses, and deeply personal responsibility. Adina found herself caring for aging parents while raising children of her own—living squarely in the reality of the sandwich generation. From supporting a mother with chronic mental health challenges, to caring for a fiercely independent father who later developed dementia, Adina’s caregiving journey began long before most people even recognize the role. She shares what it was like growing up as an only child, becoming a caregiver early, and navigating dementia alongside family history, trauma, and love. We talk about the moment she first noticed something was wrong with her father, the subtle signs of cognitive decline, and how dementia reshapes independence, identity, and family dynamics over time. This conversation also touches on: Caring for a parent with dementia later in life The emotional weight of caregiving without siblings Guilt, responsibility, and resilience in the sandwich generation Dementia behaviors, safety concerns, and early warning signs How humor shows up—even in the hardest moments Most importantly, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at what long-term caregiving really feels like—before labels, before systems step in, and long after childhood ends. Whether you’re caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s or dementia, supporting a loved one with mental illness, or balancing caregiving alongside parenting and work, this episode will resonate deeply. 🎧 Listen now for a candid, funny, and deeply human conversation about caregiving across a lifetime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices