Survey: 67% of family caregivers say they are at their mental limit

A new Talker Research survey for Visiting Angels finds emotional strain is peaking for caregivers balancing aging parents, children and daily responsibilities. The results point to guilt, stress and lost personal time, and urge families to plan before a caregiving crisis hits.

Why it matters: - The survey spotlights the strain on the sandwich generation, adults caring for aging parents while raising children. - More than half of adults in their 40s are part of this group, which can leave families stretched across competing responsibilities. - The findings show how caregiving can affect mental health, relationships and time for work, children and self-care.

What happened: - Talker Research conducted a survey on behalf of Visiting Angels. - The survey found 67% of family caregivers say they are currently at their mental limit. - Nearly half of caregivers say they feel guilty spending time with their children because they believe they should be with an aging loved one. - Visiting Angels published the findings on September 29, 2026.

The details: - Caregivers reported difficult trade-offs involving less time for partners, friends, self-care and other responsibilities. - Scott Parrish, president of Visiting Angels, said caregiving often arrives suddenly and families are rarely prepared for the sacrifices it can require. - Parrish said families often end up sacrificing their own mental health and personal time. - Parrish urged families to talk openly about a loved one’s wishes before a caregiving crisis occurs. - Parrish also said families should identify resources that can support the entire household. - More information is available in the sandwich generation survey.

Between the lines: - The survey suggests caregiving stress is not only about workload. It is also about emotional conflict, especially guilt over not being in the right place at the right time. - The message from Visiting Angels is practical as well as emotional. Planning early may help families avoid making high-pressure decisions after a crisis begins.

What's next: - Families facing caregiving decisions are being encouraged to start conversations now about wishes, responsibilities and available support. - Visiting Angels is pointing caregivers to its survey findings as a resource for planning and support. - The company’s social channels are available on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.