Nearly two out of three women in the «sandwich generation» are reaching a caregiving breaking point, according to a new report from family care platform Cleo, highlighting mounting mental health strain and rising costs tied to burnout.
Cleo’s third annual Family Health Index, based on more than 19,000 assessments, found that 64% of working women aged roughly 40 to 54 who care for both children and ageing relatives are at high risk of burnout. Researchers say the pressure is contributing to declining mental health, higher healthcare spending and workforce disruption.
The report found that 46% of women in midlife face the highest burnout risk of any age group, with many reporting reduced self-care and worsening health indicators. More than half screened positive for depression and anxiety, alongside increased social isolation.
«Caregiving strain is no longer invisible, and neither are its health consequences,» said Cleo CEO Dr Madhavi Vemireddy.
She added that earlier identification and support could help prevent worsening health outcomes and strengthen workforce resilience.
Women juggling complex caregiving demands — including raising teens, supporting neurodivergent children or managing menopause symptoms — face the highest risk levels. The study also found that high-burnout caregivers incur significantly higher healthcare costs, averaging about $1,000 per member per month compared with $600 for lower-risk peers.
Experts warn the impact extends beyond individuals.
«We’re talking about millions of women who are the engine room of the paid workforce,» said Liz Powell, founder of G2G Consulting and Women’s Health Advocates, adding that burnout can drive talent loss, rising medical claims and wider social consequences.
The findings suggest caregiving strain is emerging as a growing workplace and public health issue, with implications for productivity, retention and long-term healthcare costs as populations age and caregiving demands increase.
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