Often referred to as the “sandwich generation”, these South Africans find themselves caught between caring for their children and supporting their parents. But beyond the logistical juggling act lies a deeper, often overlooked reality: they have become the primary healthcare decision-makers for multiple people — with little support themselves.

And it is taking its toll.

While much of the conversation around the sandwich generation focuses on stress, the issue runs far deeper than emotional pressure. It is financial, practical, and increasingly, medical.

Healthcare costs can quickly multiply when you are responsible for more than one dependant. From routine check-ups to chronic condition management, the burden doesn’t just add up — it compounds. At the same time, navigating different healthcare providers, appointments, and treatment plans can become a full-time job in itself.

“What we’re seeing is a group of people who are constantly managing other people’s health, but often neglecting their own,” says Lance Blumeris from Unu Health. “They are making critical decisions every day, yet they don’t always have the tools or access they need to do it effectively.”

Time is another major constraint. Between work responsibilities and family commitments, there is little room left for proactive health management. Routine check-ups are postponed, symptoms are ignored, and preventative care falls to the bottom of the list.

Over time, this creates a dangerous cycle — where those responsible for holding everything together begin to experience their own health challenges, often only seeking help when issues become more serious.

There is a growing recognition that healthcare needs to adapt to this reality.

Rather than expecting individuals to navigate fragmented systems and multiple providers, there is increasing demand for more centralised, accessible solutions — where consultations, health information, and support can be accessed in one place.

Digital health platforms are beginning to play a role in simplifying this complexity. By offering easier access to healthcare professionals, streamlined communication, and integrated services, they provide a way for individuals to manage not just their own health, but that of their families more effectively and often at a significantly lower cost all around.

But perhaps the most important shift is one of mindset.

Taking care of others cannot come at the expense of taking care of yourself.

For more information, please visit www.unuhealth.org