My mom has Alzheimer's, and my kids are young. Forget the 'sandwich generation' — I feel like I'm in a panini press.

Catherine and her mom laughing at Catherine's wedding dinner.

Courtes of the author I manage responsibilities for my children while helping care for my aging mother.

Alzheimer's adds anticipatory grief to an already overwhelming mental load.

I've found support from other women facing the same multigenerational caregiving squeeze.

My daughter had just turned 7 years old.

Her one request was that we host a birthday party at our house.

My husband and I agreed and started preparing.

Like many parents, we needed a little help managing the moving pieces.

I asked my mother if she wouldn't mind watching my oldest daughter and our dog during the party.

My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2025.

She still lives independently, with support, but loves seeing her granddaughters.

She agreed, and we decided I would drop off my daughter and my dog with her before the party.

When I opened the door to my mom's apartment, I immediately realized something was wrong.

She was lying on the floor , unable to get up.