This growing group is referred to as the “sandwich generation.” In India, across urban homes, you will find working adults already juggling a long list of responsibilities. There are emails to answer, children to get ready for school, ageing parents who need help with medicines, doctor’s appointment or simply getting through the day.
28 Jul 2026 | 16:22 While we focus on the wellbeing of the elderly, who is looking after the caregiver? A topical solution with efficacy of 0.075% capsaicin can provide targeted symptomatic relief against neuropathic pain, without adding another complicated step to an already busy routine.
However, persistent nerve-related symptoms such as tingling, numbness or “pins and needles” in hands and feet, burning sensation, shooting pain or weakness can be signs of peripheral neuropathy. There is a reason the phrase “you can’t pour from an empty cup” resonates with caregivers. Caring for ageing parents is deeply woven into our family life. But when it becomes another full-time responsibility alongside work and raising children, all at the same time, one’s own health takes a backseat. Interrupted sleep, long hours on the feet, constantly travelling between home, work and medical appointments can all leave the body feeling strained. One area that can be easily overlooked is – nerve health. When we talk about nerve health, our first thought is often about our ageing parents. But for a busy caregiver, symptoms such as tingling in the feet after a long day, numbness in the fingers or burning sensation in hands and feet can easily be attributed to fatigue, long hours at work or simply getting older. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves carrying signals between the brain and body become damaged. These symptoms may be associated with several conditions such as diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, certain medications or other underlying medical conditions. If symptoms persist or begin interfering with everyday activities, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional and not be dismissed as a part of ageing process. For caregivers, managing discomfort also needs to be practical. Alongside addressing the underlying cause, topical treatments offer targeted solutions for people experiencing localised nerve pain that conventional pain relief creams may not always address. Capsaicin, an active compound derived from chilli peppers, can help soothe irritated nerve fibres. However, it is important to distinguish between relieving symptoms temporarily and treating the actual cause of nerve damage. When you are responsible for children as well as ageing parents, it can feel almost impossible to prioritise yourself. Health appointments get postponed, exercise is pushed aside and tiredness becomes something you simply learn to live with. Over time, this can take a toll on your wellbeing. Looking after yourself does not require a complete lifestyle change. Share caregiving responsibilities with family members where possible, keep up with your own health check-ups and make time for simple activities such as walking or stretching. Most importantly, listen to your body. Persistent tingling, numbness or pain is worth paying attention to rather than repeatedly pushing through it. The other side of the sandwich generation is, of course – the parents. As parents grow older, symptoms such as tingling, numbness, burning sensations or unsteadiness can also be dismissed as “just getting old. Paying attention to these signs and seeking timely medical advice can help address potential health concerns early. Regular check-ups, good nutrition and staying physically active can also support healthy ageing and help older adults maintain their mobility and independence. Ultimately, being part of the sandwich generation means caring for two generations at once. But caring for ageing parents should not come at the cost of caring for yourself. Paying attention to your own health, including your nerve health, is what helps you stay healthy and present for the people who need you most. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology), Senior Consultant Neurologist, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad Looking for trusted parenting advice? Follow TOI Parenting Circle on Instagram for expert guidance, relatable stories, and practical tips delivered every day.