When Jennifer Edmondson, learned that her mother had been diagnosed with ALS in 2024, her life changed almost overnight . As a Bank of America advisor in Alabama and a mom of two, she was already balancing the demands of work and family. Suddenly, she was also helping care for the woman who had always cared for her.
Jennifer's experience isn't rare. Millions of adults are part of the "sandwich generation," balancing the demands of raising children while also caring for aging parents. Alongside her three siblings, she helps look after her mother, Annette, who lives independently just a short drive away.
As ALS began affecting Annette's mobility, a new concern surfaced. What if she needed help when no one was there?
The question weighed heavily on Jennifer and her family. They wanted to respect Annette's independence while ensuring she remained safe and supported.
Finding support when it matter most
Through her benefits, Jennifer discovered a caregiving resource that helped her family put a plan in place. She was able to arrange regular support for her mother from someone they already knew and trusted—a family friend named Amy.
Amy spends time with Annette each week, helping with day-to-day tasks, providing companionship, and assisting with safe mobility around the house. The support offers reassurance not only for Annette, but for the entire family.
"It's reassuring to know that someone is there in case she falls," Jennifer said. "We feel a huge amount of relief—both financially and emotionally."
Finding more time for what matters most
What surprised Jennifer most wasn't just the practical help—it was how the support changed the way she spends her days.
Instead of spending every spare moment coordinating care and worrying about what might happen when she wasn't there, Jennifer was able to focus on being present with her family.
"I can spend more quality time with my mom and my kids because I'm not running around so much," she shared. "The real value of my benefits goes beyond a paycheck."
For many working caregivers, the challenge isn't a lack of commitment, it's a lack of time. Having trusted support can ease some of that pressure, helping families focus on relationships rather than constantly managing competing demands.
You don't have to do it alone
Every caregiving journey looks different. Some employees are helping aging parents. Others are caring for grandparents, spouses, or other loved ones while also managing work and family responsibilities. What many share is the need for support along the way.
Jennifer's story is a reminder that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. It's often what makes it possible to continue showing up for the people who matter most.
If you're caring for an aging loved one, you do not have to figure it out alone. Explore the elder care benefits and resources available through your employer, and take the first step toward more support, more reassurance, and more time for what matters most.