Caring for an ageing parent is leaving many Americans worn out, but most say it has also repaired the relationship.

A survey of 2,000 sandwich generation parents who also care for an ageing parent found 88 percent said caregiving had given them a life-changing reset with their ageing loved one. Seniors were also surveyed, and 89 percent agreed that being cared for by their adult child had healed their connection.

The study, conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Comfort Keepers as part of its annual National Day of Joy initiative, also found 82 percent of seniors said being cared for by their child in older age had been one of the most joy-filled parts of their lives.

One senior respondent described a moment with their adult child this way: “It wasn’t a grand moment, just a quiet afternoon that somehow felt golden. My child was helping me water the plants on the porch.

“At one point, they started humming a song I used to sing, and without thinking, I joined in. We both laughed when we forgot the words, just like we used to. In that simple, shared rhythm, it felt like time had folded in on itself, and for a moment, nothing had really changed except who was holding the watering can.”

The poll also found strain alongside that closeness. Almost all caregivers, 92 percent, agreed caring for an ageing loved one brings joy and emotional strain. Still, 73 percent said they would not choose to do things differently when taking on caregiving responsibilities.

Among sandwich generation respondents, 58 percent said caring for an ageing loved one makes them feel purposeful, 56 percent said it makes them feel proud and 48 percent said it makes them feel fulfilled. At the same time, 79 percent said they are tired and burnt out.

More than half, 54 percent, said they had missed or forgotten a doctor appointment in the last month because of parenting or caregiving responsibilities. Most caregivers, 87 percent, also said they juggle careers and work.

The survey found 42 percent had moved closer to be near their senior loved one, 40 percent had missed out on travel and 31 percent had given up hobbies to be present for them.

“Caregiving is often talked about through the lens of sacrifice, but these findings show it can also be a powerful source of joy, healing and renewed connection across generations,” said Joni Magnus-Ramsey, chief happiness officer for Comfort Keepers.

“Our research shows that while many family caregivers are carrying heavy responsibilities, they’re also experiencing meaningful moments with senior loved ones that can strengthen relationships in lasting ways. As we recognize the eighth annual National Day of Joy, it’s an important reminder that even in challenging seasons, joy is still found in caring for others.”

The poll found 59 percent said they had prioritised being present for family more than their careers, and 87 percent agreed caring for an ageing parent had been one of the most satisfying and fulfilling roles in their lives.

But 69 percent said they need more support when caring for an ageing loved one. Most sandwich generation caregivers, 85 percent, said respite or in-home care support for an ageing parent would make a notable positive difference in their own lives and wellbeing.

“The sandwich generation is navigating one of the most demanding life stages , raising children, managing careers and high-stress jobs and caring for aging parents all at once , that creates significantly high rates of burnout,” said Sherri Snelling, gerontologist, author and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers.

“This research highlights both sides of that reality: the emotional strain caregivers feel, yet the deep sense of purpose and accomplishment that often comes with showing up for family. Having the ability to get a respite break and having in-home support from a professional caregiver are so critical to protecting the sandwich generation’s well-being and helping families thrive.”

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 sandwich generation parents with a child aged 18 or under living at home and an ageing parent they care for, all of whom had internet access. The online survey was conducted between April 9 and April 20, 2026.

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