How Liberty Mutual is supporting the sandwich generation

Caregivers need all of the support they can get from their employers, especially those who are performing double duty at home. 

About a quarter of U.S. adults are a part of the "sandwich generation," according to data from the Pew Research Center, which refers to individuals in their 40s and 50s raising children while simultaneously caring for their aging parents. In an effort to meet this demographic's unique needs, Liberty Mutual has built out a benefit strategy to support their workforce longterm.     

"These employees are balancing caregiving responsibilities while managing full-time careers and often facing additional financial, emotional and time-related pressures," says Verlinda DiMarino, head of benefits at Liberty Mutual. "These employees are an essential part of the workforce and employers have an important role to play in providing meaningful and holistic support."

Read more: 'I was just a daughter and a mother': Sandwich caregivers struggle to manage it all

Liberty Mutual offers their caregivers a free membership to caregiving services that help them find providers for both children and aging relatives, including a senior care concierge to assist with specialized needs. The insurance company also has a Dependent Care FSA that covers pre-tax caregiving expenses, unlimited one-on-one financial coaching, workshops and goal-setting programs to support employees making important financial decisions. 

Caregivers at Liberty Mutual also have access to a medical second opinion program that connects them with experts to help confirm a diagnosis and evaluate treatment options; a personal assistant service; as well as an Employee Assistance Program that covers twelve free sessions with local therapists for both employees and their family members. 

"We recognize that success at work begins with strong wrap-around support," DiMarino says. "Without that support within the workplace, these employees are more likely to experience heightened stress and burnout, which can impact engagement and long-term retention."

Read more: 3 ways to support sandwich-generation caregivers

Flexibility also plays a large role in Liberty Mutual's strategy to support their dual caregivers. On top of having a hybrid work schedule, the insurance company offers compressed workweeks, flex time and part-time roles to give caregivers the flexibility they need to manage work and family responsibilities. In addition, employees receive ten subsidized days annually for when they need to take off unexpectedly. 

With employees having children older in life and retiring later, the "sandwich generation" is expected to grow  over the next few years, making it top of mind for benefit leaders as they think of the kinds of benefits that will amplify recruiting and retention strategies. 

"When we invest in the well-being of our employees, they feel seen, supported and have the opportunity to balance responsibilities inside and outside of the workplace," DiMarino says. "This enables them to bring their best selves to work — which is the key to building a resilient, engaged workforce."