Date

3-10-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Mary Ann Hollingsworth

Keywords

Sandwich Generation Caregiving, Female caregivers of the sandwich generation

Disciplines

Counseling | Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to describe female members of the sandwich generation’s experiences as care providers during and post-COVID-19 in Central Florida. At this research stage, female members of the sandwich generation are understood as women in midlife who occupy dual caregiving roles for dependent children and aging parents, and whose lived experiences offer insight into caregiving experiences during a global pandemic. (Steiner & Fletcher, 2017). As life expectancy has increased and financial insecurity has been a concern for all generations, the sandwich generation caregivers, specifically women, have become more focused on providing varying levels of care including, but not limited to, financial support, emotional support, and assistance with daily functions (Butts, et al., 2013; Kaye & Teshale, 2020). As women tend to be naturally drawn to providing care for others, they are more exposed to the pressures, stressors, and long-term effects, whether negative or positive of caring for multiple generations within the family (Riley, & Bowen, 2005). Questionnaires and interviews were utilized to determine if the pandemic created more challenges for caregiving and if post-pandemic, women caregivers are finding the framework for self-care and overall prolonged wellness through the implementation of strategic and adaptive behaviors.

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