Millennials are Emerging as a Generation of Caregivers

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Q. My name is Kelsey, and I'm a junior in college. I lived on campus my first year but ended up moving back home when I learned that my mother needed caregiving help. College tuition is costly and so is caregiving, so I figured that I would save money on housing and having to hire an in-home caregiver if I lived with my mother and assumed the role myself.

My college years aren’t characterized by sorority parties, study abroad opportunities, or bonding with dorm-mates. Instead, they are spent caring for my two-time cancer survivor, hip replacement recipient mother suffering from early-stage Alzheimer’s. Driving her to and from doctor’s appointments, preparing meals, giving her medication, and ensuring post-op physical therapy compliance is what dominates my collegiate experience.

I submitted an absence slip to my English professor recently, notifying him of my anticipated week-long leave when my mother’s hip surgery was scheduled. Upon reading the request, the professor scoffed, “In all my years of teaching, I’ve heard a lot of excuses, but this is a new one.” I ended up having to “prove” my caregiver status and corresponding surgery dates just to prevent being penalized for the absence.

I don't regret a thing about the role I chose to assume. My mother had me later in life and sacrificed everything for me as a single mom. I truly want to give back. But I admit, sometimes it’s hard. Am I the only millennial out there with caregiver responsibilities? Is there any help available for someone like me?

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Critter Corner: Resources for Millennial Caregivers 

Dear Angel, 

I am 22 years old and I am a caregiver for my 80 year old grandmother. It is both challenging and rewarding. She is in a wheelchair and needs help cooking, dressing, and shopping for groceries. I am often concerned about her falling when she is transferring to her chair. Sometimes I get stressed and wish I had somewhere to turn and someone to talk to who is going through the same thing. Do you have any suggestions for resources that could help? 

Thanks! 

Millie Neall 

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