Experiences of Intergenerational Caregiving among Women Belonging to the Sandwich Generation: An Example from the Philippines

ABSTRACT This study sought to understand the experiences of intergenerational caregiving among urban poor women belonging to the Sandwich Generation that is individuals who care for both their children and aging parents. Guided by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, we explored the experiences of eight Filipina mothers. Results revealed how societal/cultural expectations contributed to their willingness to accept the responsibility to be intergenerational caregivers, and how socioeconomic conditions influenced the existence of this care cycle. Findings point to how financial, material and policy support from government and workplaces may enable better provision of care for the parents and children of urban poor Filipino women as well as allow for self-care. Reframing traditional gender roles especially in child-rearing as well as discouraging culturally-shaped practices that engender the continuation of the care cycle through education may help in addressing the structurally enabled challenges experienced by women in the Sandwich Generation.