What's Happening?
Recent reports highlight the increasing demand for caregiving benefits among the 'sandwich generation,' which refers to individuals caring for both children and elderly parents. According to the 2026 U.S. Leave Management Report from NFP, only 30% of
employers offer family caregiver leave, often providing less than three weeks of paid leave. This has led many workers to use their personal time off for caregiving responsibilities. Experts, including Maria Trapenasso from NFP, emphasize the importance of creating a supportive workplace culture that does not penalize employees for taking time to manage caregiving duties. The lack of adequate caregiving benefits is seen as a potential risk for employers, who may lose top talent if they fail to address these needs.
Why It's Important?
The growing need for caregiving benefits is crucial for employee retention, particularly among women in the workforce. The absence of such benefits could lead to significant attrition, as evidenced by reports indicating that half of mothers in the sandwich generation have left jobs due to caregiving demands. With 55% of sandwich moms living in single-income households, the financial burden is substantial, as a significant portion of their income goes towards caregiving. Employers who offer comprehensive caregiving benefits are likely to stand out as preferred workplaces, attracting and retaining skilled employees. This shift in workplace dynamics reflects broader societal changes and the need for policies that support modern caregiving realities.
