You might have thought that juggling work and family life would not be a problem, once you hit 50.

But a new academic study suggests that people in their fifties and upwards are being run ragged, because of the conflicting demands of work and family.

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Many over fifties are looking after older relatives or grandchildren. Some are still looking after their own children, according to new research form the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.

It's warning that, without more resources to support carers, their contribution may not be sustainable.

Nanesha: finds she has no time for herself

We talked to one carer, Nanesha Nelson, who finds it tough to combine her job as a playgroup leader with caring for an elderly relative sufferiing from Alzheimer's.

click here to watch our interview Click here for the Joseph Rowntree foundation website for the report's findings. The report says: demand is increasing for informal care, and individuals are bearing the costs both financially and emotionally. Both men and women are carers, though women do more than men. Men generally do less than 5 hours a week. There is a general lack of support from employers, but often employees don't realise what benefits are available and also feel unable to take advantage of benefits due to job security. Workers are very dedicated in their jobs and this means that caring responsibilities takes a toll on family life and carer health. In the work environment, it is often the manager that determines access to care. It recommends: a one-stop-shop place to ask for help. For instance help with researching care homes, finding out about benefits. Care requirements change so much from person to person that it is flexibility that is required. The full report, The pivot generation: Informal care and work after 50 by Ann Mooney and June Statham with Antonia Simon, is published for the Foundation by The Policy Press as part of the Transitions after 50 series (ISBN 1 86134 402 3, price �11.95). It is available from Marston Book Services, PO Box 269, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 4YN, Tel: 01235 465500, Fax: 01235 465556, email: [email protected]. (Please add �2.75 p&p for first book and 50p per book thereafter.) To have your say, e-mail us at [email protected] Send us your comments: Name: Your E-mail Address: Town/City: Commenting on: Comments: